Description
This Savory Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Butter is a quick and healthy dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets and fresh asparagus baked together with garlic, lemon, and butter. The foil packets lock in moisture and flavors, making for an easy cleanup and a deliciously aromatic meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Vegetables
- 4 fillets Salmon (fresh or frozen, high quality)
- 1 bunch Asparagus (can substitute with broccoli or zucchini)
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 3 cloves Garlic (freshly minced)
- 2 tbsp Butter (can substitute with olive oil or ghee)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Broth (white wine can be a substitute)
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (fresh for best taste)
- 1 tsp Hot Sauce (adjust to taste; paprika can be used instead)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to reach the ideal baking temperature for the salmon and vegetables.
- Prepare Foil Sheets: Cut 2 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each measuring about 14 x 12 inches, to create individual packets for baking.
- Make Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and hot sauce to create a flavorful drizzling sauce.
- Season Salmon and Arrange: Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the salmon fillets. Place each fillet in the center of a foil sheet, positioning asparagus stalks alongside.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Generously sprinkle the minced garlic over the salmon and asparagus. Then, drizzle the prepared broth mixture evenly across both the fish and vegetables.
- Add Butter: Dot small pieces of butter on top of the salmon fillets and asparagus to add richness and help with steaming.
- Seal Foil Packets: Carefully fold each foil sheet around the salmon and asparagus, sealing the edges tightly while leaving some space inside for steam to circulate during baking.
- Bake: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 9 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packets to avoid steam burns. Garnish with additional fresh lemon juice and herbs, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- For thicker salmon fillets, slightly increase baking time to ensure doneness.
- Feel free to substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli or zucchini based on preference.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor and brightness.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce or substitute paprika to match your desired spice level.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil or ghee for different flavor profiles or dietary needs.
- Be cautious when opening foil packets as steam can cause burns.
- Serving this dish with a side of steamed rice or quinoa makes for a complete, balanced meal.
