- Quick and Easy: With straightforward preparation and cooking steps, this dish is perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and asparagus provides essential vitamins and minerals.
- Flavorful: The lemon-garlic butter sauce enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and asparagus.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil packs reduces the number of dishes to wash.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch of asparagus, ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley), for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Foil Packs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil. Place salmon fillets in the center of each piece of foil and arrange asparagus around them.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Drizzle the lemon-garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets and asparagus. Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
- Seal the Foil Packs: Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing the packets closed.
- Bake: Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packs, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetable Substitutions: Replace asparagus with green beans or broccoli for a different twist.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use fresh thyme instead of Italian seasoning.
- Citrus Alternatives: Substitute lemon with lime or orange for a unique citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the salmon’s texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
Is it necessary to use aluminum foil?
Foil helps seal in moisture and flavor, but parchment paper can be used as an alternative.
Can I grill the foil packs instead of baking?
Absolutely! Place the foil packs on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad complement this dish nicely.
How can I prevent the asparagus from becoming too soft?
Use thicker asparagus spears and ensure they are placed around the salmon, not underneath, to avoid overcooking.
Can I add other seasonings to the sauce?
Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite herbs and spices.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the foil packs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Can I use other types of fish?
Firm white fish like cod or halibut can be used, but cooking times may vary.
How do I prevent the foil from tearing?
Use heavy-duty aluminum foil and handle the packs gently to avoid punctures.
Conclusion
This Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil recipe is a flavorful and convenient meal option that combines the health benefits of salmon and asparagus with the zesty taste of lemon-garlic butter. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Baked Salmon Asparagus Foil Packs
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil recipe is a quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender salmon fillets, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce, it’s healthy, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy families or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley), for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil.
- Place salmon fillets in the center of each foil piece and arrange asparagus around them.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the sauce over the salmon and asparagus. Top with lemon slices.
- Fold the foil to seal the packs tightly.
- Place packs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully open foil packs, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For variations, substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli, or use lime instead of lemon for a citrus twist.
- To grill instead of bake, cook foil packs over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
