Meals

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Garlic

Name: Baked Salmon in Foil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1 cup asparagus spears; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 3 tbsp garlic butter (softened); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (for garnish); Zest of 1 lemon

March 29, 2025

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The aroma of baked salmon in foil wafts through my kitchen, mingling with the zesty brightness of lemon and the subtle allure of garlic butter. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that sings to your taste buds and beckons everyone to the table. savory garlic butter cheese bombs Imagine succulent salmon fillets enveloped in a warm hug of foil, gently steaming with tender asparagus. sweet dessert to finish your meal It’s like a cozy blanket for your dinner plate, perfect for any occasion from casual weeknights to festive gatherings.

I fondly remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during one of our infamous dinner parties. The moment they took their first bite, I could see their eyes widen in delight as the flavors danced on their tongues. Since then, this baked salmon in foil has become my secret weapon for impressing guests and satisfying family cravings alike. It’s ideal for those nights when you want something easy yet elegant that fills the room with mouthwatering aromas. For more inspiration, check out this Greek Salmon Quinoa Salad recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked salmon recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it adds elegance to any dinner table
Versatile enough for various sides, it pairs beautifully with rice or crusty bread

I once had my aunt proclaim this dish “the best salmon ever,” and I still bask in her compliment!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: grilled chicken for a summer meal.

Salmon Fillets: Fresh, high-quality salmon ensures a moist and flaky texture that’s hard to resist.
Asparagus: Look for bright green spears; thin ones cook quickly while thicker ones have a heartier bite.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the salmon.
Garlic Butter: Combine softened butter with minced garlic; it elevates the flavor profile beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this classic Caesar Salad recipe.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep everything moist and enhances flavor; use extra virgin for best results.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate all ingredients; don’t skimp on these.

For the Sauce:

Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; it’s like confetti on your culinary masterpiece.
Zest of Lemon: Adds an aromatic punch; be sure not to zest too deep and hit the bitter white pith.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures even cooking from the start.

Prepare the foil: Lay out a large piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet, creating a pocket where your salmon will rest comfortably.

Season the salmon: Place your salmon fillets skin-side down on the foil. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt, pepper, and half of that glorious garlic butter over each piece.

Toss in asparagus: Arrange asparagus around the salmon on the foil. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

Add lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over both salmon and asparagus generously so they soak up that citrus goodness while baking.

Wrap it up: Fold up the edges of the foil tightly to create a sealed packet. Ensure no steam escapes; we’re not trying to lose any deliciousness here!

Bake away: Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when its color turns lovely pinkish-orange.

Garnish & serve: Carefully unwrap your foil packet—watch out for steam! Drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce over everything before sprinkling chopped parsley on top for color.

And there you have it! A delightful baked salmon in foil with asparagus that’s sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to sit at your table!

You Must Know

Baked salmon in foil keeps the fish moist and flavorful, while asparagus adds a vibrant crunch
This dish is a winner for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions
The lemon garlic butter sauce elevates the flavor profile, making it irresistible

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the foil packets with salmon and asparagus, then drizzle that heavenly lemon garlic butter sauce before sealing tightly. perfect side salad for salmon Bake for 15-20 minutes for perfectly cooked salmon.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out asparagus for other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also play with spices; adding dill or paprika gives an extra flavor kick. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, keeping it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh salmon for better texture and flavor; frozen can become mushy
Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly so steam doesn’t escape
Cooking time may vary based on salmon thickness; check doneness with a fork

Sometimes I think back to that dinner party when I served this dish and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! The compliments kept flowing, making me feel like a culinary rock star.

FAQ

What is the best type of salmon for baking?

Wild-caught salmon is usually fresher and has a better flavor than farmed varieties.

Can I use other vegetables besides asparagus?

Absolutely! Broccoli, green beans, or even carrots work great in this recipe.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s cooked through, usually 145°F internally.