Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked salmon in foil with asparagus and lemon garlic butter sauce is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. The salmon is tender, juicy, and infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic, while the asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast. Cooking everything in foil makes cleanup a breeze and locks in moisture for perfectly cooked fish every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Fresh asparagus spears
• Lemon (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Butter (melted)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place large sheets of aluminum foil on a baking sheet.
3. Arrange the asparagus in the center of the foil.
4. Place the salmon fillets on top of the asparagus.
5. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
7. Place lemon slices on top of the salmon.
8. Fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing it well to form a packet.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.
10. Carefully open the foil packets, garnish with fresh dill or parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The total preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15-20 minutes, making it ready in about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Include cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or thinly sliced zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a spicy kick.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange or lime slices instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for varied aromatic notes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave on low power to avoid drying out the salmon.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it completely before baking for even cooking.

What can I substitute for asparagus?

You can use green beans, broccoli, or zucchini as alternatives to asparagus.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the foil packets a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I cook this on the grill instead of the oven?

Yes, you can grill the foil packets over medium heat for about 15 minutes.

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Fresh, wild-caught salmon is preferred for its flavor, but any type of salmon will work.

Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?

No, you can leave the skin on; it helps keep the salmon moist during baking.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

While not traditional, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add a savory touch.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or coconut oil.

Conclusion

Baked salmon in foil with asparagus and lemon garlic butter sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its fresh, vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup make it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender salmon, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon garlic butter in every bite!

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