This baked salmon is a treat! Wrapped in foil, it cooks perfectly with fresh asparagus and a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Simple, healthy, and full of flavor!
I love how little mess this recipe makes—just pop it in the oven and relax! Plus, who can resist that buttery lemon goodness? It’s a crowd-pleaser every time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal, but you can also use frozen ones. Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking. For a budget-friendly option, consider using tilapia or trout which can also work well here.
Asparagus: Look for fresh asparagus; it should be bright green and firm. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli can serve as great substitutes, adding a nice crunch.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control over the saltiness, but if you’re watching your fat intake, try using olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. It still enhances the flavors nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove to maintain the right balance.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best for its bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice can be used, just ensure it’s 100% lemon juice without additives to keep it flavorful.
How Do I Make Sure the Salmon and Asparagus Are Perfectly Cooked?
Timing is crucial for cooking salmon and asparagus together. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Wrap salmon and asparagus tightly in the foil to keep the steam in, helping them cook evenly.
- Check for doneness: salmon should be opaque and flaky, and asparagus should be tender yet slightly crisp. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Let the packets rest for a minute after baking. This allows the flavors to meld while you avoid burns from the steam!
With these tips, you’ll serve up a beautifully cooked dish every time. Enjoy your Baked Salmon in Foil!
How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus lemon slices for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked salmon dish will take you about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes of baking time. So, in total, expect to spend around 30-35 minutes cooking this easy and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help to ensure your salmon cooks perfectly.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Cut four pieces of aluminum foil, making sure each piece is big enough to wrap a salmon fillet and some asparagus. Lay these pieces out on a baking sheet—this will make it easier to assemble everything.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stove. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smells amazing!
4. Assemble the Foil Packets:
Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil. Next to each salmon, arrange a handful of asparagus. This will create a lovely, colorful dish!
5. Add the Flavor:
Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over each salmon fillet and the asparagus. Make sure everything is nicely coated, as this will add a lot of flavor.
6. Garnish with Lemon:
Place a slice of lemon on top of each salmon fillet. This will enhance the flavor even more while cooking.
7. Fold and Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, then seal the top tightly to create a little packet. This will keep the steam inside while it cooks.
8. Bake:
Put your foil packets in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork) and the asparagus is tender.
9. Open the Packets:
Once baked, carefully take the packets out of the oven. Let them sit for a minute before opening, as there will be hot steam inside—watch your fingers!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your salmon with more chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve it hot right away, and enjoy the delicious flavors of your baked salmon and asparagus!
Enjoy your flavorful Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight or seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before dressing with the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as some vegetables might cook faster or slower than asparagus. Aim for tender but not mushy veggies!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon and asparagus in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through, adding a bit of butter or lemon juice to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to spice things up with red pepper flakes, dill, or even a splash of soy sauce. You can also add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the foil packets for extra flavor and color!
