Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Snap the woody ends off the asparagus and place them on the baking sheet; drizzle with 1 tsp of olive oil and season with half of the salt and pepper.
Roast the asparagus for 10-12 minutes until tender but still vibrant green with a slight char.
While the asparagus roasts, pat the salmon fillet completely dry with a paper towel to ensure a perfect sear.
Season the salmon on both sides with the remaining salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat the remaining 1 tsp of olive oil in a stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering.
Carefully place the salmon in the pan, skin-side up, and sear for 4-5 minutes without moving it until a golden-brown crust forms.
Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for a fully cooked, flaky texture.
Remove from heat and immediately top with fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve the crispy salmon alongside the roasted asparagus for a clean, nutrient-dense meal.