Salmon with Sweet Potato and Asparagus

Still over here keeping my swimmer fueled and ready for the 4000 yards he is swimming this weekend!!!  Yummy!!!  :)

Ingredients:

• For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 4-6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if preferred)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

• For the Sweet Potatoes:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

• For the Asparagus:

  • 1 bunch of asparagus (about 12-15 spears)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
• Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
• Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Prepare the Salmon:

• While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the salmon.
• Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled.
• Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salmon, then rub the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper on top.
• Optional: Add a couple of lemon slices on top of the fillets for added flavor and decoration.
• Roast the salmon in the oven (alongside the sweet potatoes if you have space) for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork. You can also broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispier top.

Prepare the Asparagus:

• Trim the tough ends off the asparagus by snapping or cutting about 1-2 inches off the bottoms.
• Toss the asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the asparagus for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. You can also roast them in the oven alongside the salmon and sweet potatoes for 12-15 minutes.

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Tips:

• For added flavor: You can sprinkle the sweet potatoes with a little cinnamon for a sweet-savory contrast, or drizzle the asparagus with balsamic glaze.
• Air fryer option: You can also cook the sweet potatoes in an air fryer at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy. The salmon and asparagus can also be cooked in an air fryer for a quicker option.