Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Okay, picture this: I’m It’s a busy weeknight, the kids are hangry, and you’re staring blankly into the fridge wondering what happened. What are you going to make? What is it like to What is your take on Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce? What is your new best friend? It’s like a sheet pan dinner’s even easier, more flavorful cousin. Is it faster than ordering takeout? Is this a lifesaver?
What is the recipe for Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?
Think of it as a complete meal, elegantly wrapped in foil packet. What’s essentially flaky, tender salmon baked alongside vibrant green asparagus, all bathed in a creamy, tangy lemon. What is the best garlic lemon butter sauce? The foil creates a steaming environment, which means the salmon stays incredibly moist and the fish is not contaminated. How does asparagus cook? Is it easy to clean up because everything cooks in its little foil pouch? I started making this when I wanted a healthy and delicious meal that required minimal effort. What is a win-win dinner?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best recipes to make with this recipe?
- Flavor explosion: WhatWhat is that garlic lemon butter sauce? The bright lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, and the garlic adds the perfect savory.
- Effortless:I kid you not, this takes about 5 minutes to prep. Just toss everything together, seal it in foil and bake. Perfect for those nights when you’re running on fumes.
- Budget friendlySalmon is a bit pricey, but you don’t need to buy dozens of fillets. Plus, asparagus is often on sale, especially in the spring.
- Versatile:Is it possible to substitute asparagus for other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or even bell peppers? Can you use different herbs?
What I love about this is how foolproof it is. Even if you’re not a confident cook, you can nail this recipe. I think this is even easier than my go-to Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, which is saying something!
How do I make Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe?
Quick Overview
What’s the lowdown? The garlic lemon butter sauce, toss the salmon and asparagus in it, seal, and serve. Everything in foil packets, and bake until the salmon is flaky. What’s the beauty of foil? The foil traps all the flavors, infusing them into the foil. Salmon and asparagus. How easy is it to prepare this dish every night?
Ingredients Notes:
For the Salmon and Asparagus:
Salmon Fillets: What I usually go for skin-on, but skinless works too. Just make sure they’re about the same thickness so they cook evenly.
Asparagus: Look for stalks that are firm and bright green. Snap off the woody ends.
What is the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?
Butter:How do you control saltiness?
Garlic: Freshly minced is a must!
Lemon:If you want a fuller flavor, you’ll need both juice and zest.
Fresh Parsley:What is the best way to add freshness to a salad?
Salt and pepper: What are some examples To taste, of course!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). What is the best temperature to cook salmon? Cut four large pieces of foil (about 12×12 inches each). A little extra foil is always better than not enough.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Set aside. What is the best way Season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with lemon zest – it really brightens up the sauce!
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets
Place a salmon fillet in the center of each foil piece. Arrange asparagus spears around the salmon. Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
Step 4: Seal the Foil Packets
If you have asparagus and salmon, fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing the edges tightly to create a packet. You want to make sure the steam can’t escape.
Step 5: Bake
Place foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. What are some of the best ways to break a fork? What is the cooking time for salmon fillets?
Step 6: Serve
Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for the steam!). Serve the salmon and asparagus immediately, drizzled with any remaining sauce from the packets. Can you garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired?
What should I serve it with?
What is your favorite recipe for Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce? What are some good ideas to make a complete meal?
For a light lunch:Quinoa and Couscous are great carbs and fiber. I love serving it with a side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
What is a hearty dinner?Roasted potatoes or rice pilaf are perfect accompaniments. What are some good ways to serve green beans with a salad?
What is a Fancy Brunch?Serve with scrambled eggs or frittata for a sophisticated brunch spread. What is a good glass of white wine?
This is perfect when you are having company over too! It’s simple, elegant, and everyone always enjoys it.
How do I bake baked salmon and asparagus?
How can I make this recipe even better?
Asparagus Pre Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus by bending each spear until it naturally breaks. This ensures you’re only using the tender parts.
Foil Sealing: Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly to trap the steam and flavors. A good trick is to fold the edges over twice to create a secure seal.
Doneness Testing: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking it, or it will become dry.
Lemon Love: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds a wonderful brightness to the sauce. Use a microplane to get the zest without the bitter white pith.
Herb Heaven: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Dill, thyme, or chives would all be delicious additions to the garlic lemon butter sauce.
Veggie Variations: If you’re not a fan of asparagus, try using broccoli florets, green beans, or sliced bell peppers instead. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down completely before storing.
Freezer Instructions: While you can freeze it, the texture of the asparagus might change slightly. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: The best way to reheat this is in the oven. Place the salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
I prefer to eat any leftovers cold the next day in a salad. It’s seriously yummy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe! It’s quick, easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, I guarantee you’ll love this recipe. And hey, if you’re looking for other easy weeknight dinners, be sure to check out my other recipes! Now get in the kitchen and start cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you try this recipe.
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Baked Salmon and Asparagus in Foil with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet skinless
- 1 pound asparagus trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out a large sheet of foil and place the salmon in the center.
- Arrange the asparagus around the salmon.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the salmon and asparagus.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, covering completely.
- Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
- Carefully open the foil packet and top with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
