Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

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Hi there! Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that's also super easy to prepare? Look no further than baked salmon in foil with asparagus and lemon garlic butter sauce! This recipe is a dietitian's dream come true – it's packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, all wrapped up in a flavorful and satisfying dish.

What is the best part? This recipe is incredibly simple and healthy. We're talking just a few ingredients, minimal prep work, and a quick bake time. So whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a kitchen novice, you can whip up this impressive healthy dinner dish in no time. So ditch the takeout menus and let's get cooking!

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of our Baked Salmon in Foil recipe tonight! This quick and effortless dish features salmon and asparagus enveloped in individual foil packets, cooked to perfection with a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce.

The harmonious blend of bright lemon, rich butter, and pungent garlic creates a truly delightful dinner experience. Plus, it's low-carb, paleo, gluten-free, and keto-friendly – a feast for everyone to relish!

Preparation time: 12 minutes.    Yield: 2 servings.    Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Asparagus

• 1 pound (450g) salmon fillets, divided
• 2 tablespoons vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic (4 cloves)
• 1 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
• 3-4 tablespoons butter, diced into small cubes (or ghee)
• 1 lb (450g) medium-thick asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Cut two sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (14 by 12 inches each) and lay them separately on your countertop. In a small bowl, combine the broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
2. Seasoning: Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Divide the salmon onto the aluminum foil, placing trimmed asparagus alongside.
3. Seasoning and Drizzling: Adjust the seasoning of the salmon with additional salt and pepper, then sprinkle minced garlic over the top. Generously drizzle the broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce mixture over the salmon and asparagus.
4. Butter Addition: Distribute the diced butter evenly among the foil packets, placing them over the salmon and asparagus.
5. Wrapping: Carefully wrap the salmon foil packets, ensuring the edges are crimped together while leaving some space inside for heat circulation.
6. Baking: Transfer the foil packets to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 9-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
7. Finishing Touches: Carefully unwrap the foil packets, drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and a slice of lemon.

Enjoy!

Savor the delightful flavors and simplicity of our Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce. It's a wholesome and satisfying meal that's sure to please your taste buds while offering the convenience of minimal cleanup.

Tips for Perfecting Baked Salmon Foil Packs

Our baked salmon recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. Don't fret if you're missing an ingredient – use what you have on hand to customize your dish. Here are some helpful tips for mastering baked salmon in foil:

How to Bake Salmon in Foil

• Avoid overcooking salmon fillets. For a crispy texture, broil the salmon in the oven for 2 minutes after opening the foil packs.
• Thick asparagus may require blanching in boiling water before baking to ensure thorough cooking.
• Concerned about aluminum foil? Use parchment paper to create foil packets or line the foil with parchment paper for grilling.
• Non-keto dieters can drizzle a teaspoon of honey over the salmon fillets before baking for added sweetness.
• Increase the number of salmon fillets for larger family servings.
• For added flavor, consider making a sauce with melted butter and minced garlic combined with broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce.

Recipe Variations for Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Citrus Twist : Enhance the lemony flavor by adding slices of fresh lemon or orange inside the foil packets before baking. This infusion adds a refreshing citrus aroma and taste to the dish.

2. Herb Infusion : Elevate the dish with a blend of fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or basil. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the salmon and asparagus before sealing the foil packets for a burst of aromatic freshness.

3. Mediterranean Delight : Transform the dish into a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece by incorporating ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers. These additions infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors and vibrant colors.

4. Asian Fusion : Add an Asian twist to the recipe by drizzling the salmon with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before sealing it in the foil packets. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

5. Creamy Option : For a creamy variation, spread a layer of cream cheese or Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and spices over the salmon fillets before adding the asparagus. This creates a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the lemon garlic butter sauce.

6. Spicy Kick : For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the salmon before sealing the foil packets. This adds a spicy kick to the dish, balancing the flavors of the lemon garlic butter sauce.

7. Cheesy Delight : Create a cheesy variation by sprinkling grated Parmesan or feta cheese over the salmon and asparagus before sealing the foil packets. The cheese melts during baking, creating a creamy and flavorful topping for the dish.

8. Nutty Crunch : Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans over the salmon and asparagus before sealing the foil packets. The nuts toast in the oven, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

9. Savory Umami : Boost the umami flavor by adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the lemon garlic butter sauce mixture. This adds depth and complexity to the dish, enhancing its overall savory profile.

10. Seafood Medley : Create a seafood feast by adding shrimp, scallops, or lobster tails to the foil packets along with the salmon and asparagus. This creates a luxurious seafood medley that's perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Experiment with these variations to create unique and delicious twists on the classic baked salmon in foil with asparagus and lemon garlic butter sauce. Enjoy the versatility and flavor of this delightful dish!

Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe Info

Impress your family with this effortless and delectable baked salmon with asparagus. Each serving is wrapped in foil, preserving the salmon's juiciness and flavor. The zesty seasoning blend of garlic, broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce, finished with fresh parsley or cilantro, ensures a burst of flavor with every bite. Quick and easy, this meal promises fuss-free dining that everyone will adore!

Baking Time for Salmon Foil Packs

Salmon requires only 9-12 minutes of baking in a preheated oven (425°F – 220°C). The high temperature seals in moisture, resulting in tender and moist salmon. Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker ones may take longer.

Selecting the Best Salmon

Any type of salmon works well with this recipe, including Atlantic, Chinook, Coho, Pink, Sockeye, or King Salmon. Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible for superior flavor and quality.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked salmon with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, include sliced vegetables like tomatoes, celery, or carrots in the foil packet for added consistency. For non-keto options, enjoy with a slice of country bread to soak up the savory juices.

Storing Cooked Salmon

Store leftover baked salmon in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. To freeze, cool the salmon and store it in sealed airtight containers for up to 1 month.

Customizing Your Salmon in Foil

• Swap butter for olive oil or a healthier alternative.
• Experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
• Try alternative fish varieties like cod or trout.
• Serve over quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
• Explore different hot sauces to personalize your flavor profile.

More Salmon Recipes You Might Enjoy

Explore a variety of unique and delicious salmon recipes to elevate your dining experience. Each recipe offers distinct flavors and culinary delights!