Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus Avocado Salsa and Steamed Asparagus

By , Test Kitchen Director · 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 (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 4 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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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.

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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