Name: Baked Salmon with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 bunch of asparagus; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon slices, for garnish

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When it comes to quick, healthy, and flavorful meals, Aluminum Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Sauce is a dish that checks all the boxes.

Baked Salmon with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Sauce

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also brings together the rich, buttery flavors of salmon with the zesty brightness of lemon garlic sauce and the tender crunch of asparagus. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress while keeping things stress-free.

Why Choose Aluminum Baked Salmon?

Cooking salmon and vegetables in aluminum foil packets is a foolproof method to lock in moisture and flavor. The foil acts as a mini steam chamber, ensuring the salmon remains tender and flaky while allowing the asparagus to cook to perfection. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in its own little packet—no messy pans to scrub!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Aluminum Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 salmon fillets
1 bunch of asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 garlic cloves, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Foil Packets

Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil, each big enough to wrap a salmon fillet and some asparagus. Place one salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil. Arrange a few asparagus spears alongside the salmon.

Step 3: Season the Salmon and Asparagus

Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and asparagus. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, melted butter, and chopped parsley. This sauce is the secret to the dish’s bright and tangy flavor!

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Spoon the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the salmon fillets and asparagus. Make sure each piece gets a generous coating for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Seal the Foil Packets

Fold the edges of the aluminum foil up and over the salmon and asparagus to create tightly sealed packets. This step is crucial for trapping steam and ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 8: Serve

Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam!) and transfer the salmon and asparagus to serving plates. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Here’s why it’s a go-to recipe for so many home cooks:

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, fiber from asparagus, and antioxidants from fresh lemon juice, this meal is as nutritious as it is tasty.
Minimal Cleanup: The aluminum foil packets mean there’s no need to scrub pots or pans after dinner.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Elegant Presentation: The colorful combination of pink salmon, green asparagus, and yellow lemon slices makes this dish visually stunning—ideal for entertaining guests.

Tips for Success

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and asparagus will yield the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your baking time to ensure the salmon stays moist and flaky. Overcooked salmon can become dry.
Experiment with Herbs: While parsley works beautifully in this recipe, you can also try dill, thyme, or chives for a different flavor profile.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini in your foil packets for added variety.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! If using frozen salmon fillets, make sure to thaw them completely before preparing this recipe. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before seasoning.

2. Can I cook this on a grill instead of in the oven?

Absolutely! Place the foil packets on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 10–12 minutes. Grilling adds a slight smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

3. What can I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice pilaf, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up any extra sauce!

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Aluminum Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Sauce is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and elegant presentation, this dish is destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, you can’t go wrong with this winning combination of tender salmon, crisp asparagus, and tangy lemon garlic sauce.

So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious! Bon appétit!