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Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: A Healthy, Flavorful Meal in Minutes
Looking for a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare? Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is the perfect solution. This dish is a delicious, healthy way to enjoy salmon and vegetables with minimal cleanup. The salmon turns out tender and flaky, while the asparagus is perfectly roasted in the oven, all brought together with a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce that takes the dish to the next level.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while asparagus adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The combination of these ingredients, plus the zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, makes for a meal that is both satisfying and good for you.
Let’s dive into how to make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce, along with the reasons this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation and cooking time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since the salmon and asparagus are baked in foil, cleanup is a breeze. No need to scrub greasy pans or bake sheets—just toss the foil and you’re done!
- Healthy and Nutrient-Packed: This dish is loaded with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. The salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, while asparagus provides fiber, vitamin K, and folate.
- Flawless Flavors: The combination of tender, juicy salmon, roasted asparagus, and the zesty, garlicky lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible. The flavors are light but vibrant, making this dish refreshing and full of depth.
- Customizable: This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to your taste preferences. You can switch up the vegetables or experiment with different seasonings for a unique twist.
Ingredients for Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious, healthy dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the salmon and vegetables to perfection.
- Trim the asparagus: Wash and trim the tough ends of the asparagus. You can do this by gently snapping off the ends or cutting them off with a knife.
- Prepare the foil: Tear off a large sheet of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long. This will be used to wrap the salmon and asparagus together for baking.
Step 2: Season the Salmon and Asparagus
- Prepare the asparagus: Place the asparagus in the center of the foil. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat evenly in the oil and seasonings.
- Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on top of the asparagus. Drizzle the salmon with the remaining olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried parsley, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
- Drizzle the sauce: Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets and asparagus, making sure to coat everything well.
Step 4: Seal and Bake
- Seal the foil: Fold the sides of the foil up over the salmon and asparagus, then fold the top to create a sealed packet. Be sure to leave some space for the steam to circulate, which will help cook the salmon evenly.
- Bake: Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender and slightly roasted. Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Open the foil packet: Carefully open the foil packet once done. Be cautious of the hot steam that will escape as you open it.
- Garnish: Serve the salmon and asparagus directly from the foil or transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional parsley or other herbs of your choice for an extra pop of freshness.
Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so it’s important not to overcook it. The fish should flake easily with a fork but remain moist. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer—salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Use fresh asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key to getting the perfect texture—tender, but still slightly crisp. If using frozen asparagus, the texture may not be the same, but it can still work in a pinch.
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- Customize the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the butte