Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients
– **Salmon:**
– 4 (6 oz.) salmon fillets, skin removed
– **Asparagus:**
– 1 lb. asparagus, trimmed
– **Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:**
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
– 1 tsp. lemon zest (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
#### Instructions
**1. Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking salmon, allowing it to cook evenly while remaining moist.
**2. Prepare the Foil:**
Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil, each large enough to create a sealed packet around the salmon and asparagus. This will trap the steam and flavors, ensuring a tender result.
**3. Season the Asparagus:**
Place the trimmed asparagus in a large bowl. Drizzle with half of the melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
**4. Assemble the Foil Packets:**
– Lay a piece of foil on a baking sheet.
– Place a portion of the seasoned asparagus in the center.
– Top with a salmon fillet.
– In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Drizzle half of this mixture over the salmon fillet.
– Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
– Fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing it tightly to create a packet. Repeat for the remaining fillets.
**5. Bake:**
Place the foil packets in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
**6. Serve:**
Carefully open the foil packets (watch for steam) and transfer the salmon and asparagus to plates. Drizzle with the remaining lemon garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
#### Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon
– **Choosing Salmon:** Look for vibrant, firm fillets. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, but farmed varieties are also delicious and often more affordable.
– **Asparagus Alternatives:** Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, adjusting cooking times as needed.
– **Cooking Times:** Adjust the baking time if using larger or thicker salmon fillets. A general rule is about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Pair this dish with a simple green salad or quinoa for a complete meal.
### Nutritional Benefits
**Salmon** is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. It’s also rich in protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and D.
**Asparagus** provides fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate. It’s a great low-calorie vegetable that complements the richness of the salmon.
**Garlic and Lemon** add flavor without extra calories, while also providing health benefits, including boosting the immune system and enhancing digestion.
Conclusion
Baked salmon in foil with asparagus and lemon garlic butter sauce is not only a simple and delicious meal but also a healthy option that can be prepared quickly. The method of cooking in foil ensures that the fish remains moist while infusing it with the flavors of garlic and lemon. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a gourmet experience with minimal effort. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits that this recipe brings to your table!