Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender salmon fillets pan-seared until crisp-skinned, topped with a bright avocado and citrus salsa, paired with simply steamed asparagus spears. This whole30-inspired whole30 (whole30, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends (6 oz each), skin on salmon fillets, large, diced ripe avocado, medium, peeled and segmented orange into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the salsa by combining 1 large diced avocado, 1 medium peeled and segmented orange, 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and 1 small finely chopped jalapeño in a bowl. Season with 1/2 tsp sea salt and gently toss. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 lb trimmed asparagus spears. Steam for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pat dry 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Place fillets skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until skin is crisp and golden. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more until salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
  4. Step 4: Plate the salmon topped generously with the citrus avocado salsa, accompanied by the steamed asparagus.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, gluten free, paleo, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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