Here’s a Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce recipe that’s both simple and delicious! This meal is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a healthy dinner. The salmon stays moist and tender, while the asparagus roasts perfectly in the foil. The garlic lemon butter sauce adds the finishing touch!
Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, depending on your preference)
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Foil Packets:
- Tear off 4 large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12-14 inches long).
- Place each salmon fillet in the center of a piece of foil.
- Arrange asparagus around the salmon fillets. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Foil Packets:
- Spoon a generous amount of the garlic lemon butter sauce over each salmon fillet, making sure the asparagus is also coated.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, then fold up the ends to seal the packet tightly. This will trap the steam and ensure the salmon cooks evenly and stays moist.
5. Bake the Salmon:
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. For a 1-inch thick fillet, 15 minutes is usually perfect. You can check doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork; it should easily separate and look opaque.
6. Serve:
- Carefully open the foil packets (be cautious of hot steam). Garnish the salmon with freshly chopped parsley and serve with the roasted asparagus.
- Optionally, drizzle any remaining garlic lemon butter sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations:
- Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the foil packets for even more flavor.
- For Crispy Salmon: If you prefer crispy salmon, open the foil packet during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the top to crisp up.
- Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic lemon butter sauce.
- Salmon Alternatives: This recipe works well with other fish like trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.
This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a healthy, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this meal!