Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

 

This Foil-Packed Salmon is a foolproof, flavor-packed meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Individually wrapped fillets steam in a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce, resulting in salmon that is incredibly moist and tender, with perfectly cooked asparagus. It’s an elegant yet effortless dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Simple & Clean: Easy preparation with minimal cleanup.

• Nutritious Powerhouse: Salmon is rich in omega-3s, and asparagus is loaded with vitamins.

• Bursting with Flavor: The zesty, garlicky butter sauce infuses every bite.

Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin removed

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon slices for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Foil: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Tear off four sheets of aluminum foil, each about 12x12 inches.

2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Packets: Place one salmon fillet in the center of each foil sheet. Generously brush the top of each fillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Divide the asparagus spears evenly, arranging them around the salmon. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the asparagus.

4. Seal the Packets: Bring the long sides of the foil together and fold them down over the salmon, then fold and crimp the short ends to create a sealed packet, leaving a little room inside for steam to circulate.

5. Bake to Perfection: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Serve: Carefully open the packets (be mindful of the hot steam). Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a fresh lemon slice if desired. Serve immediately directly from the foil.

Chef's Tips for Success

• Don't Overcook: Salmon is best when still slightly tender in the center. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.

• Quality Counts: For the brightest flavor, use fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

• Even Cooking: Try to select salmon fillets that are of similar thickness so they cook at the same rate.

• Veggie Swap: Feel free to substitute asparagus with other quick-cooking vegetables like green beans, sliced zucchini, or broccoli florets.