“Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce” is a sumptuous and healthy dish, combining the rich flavors of the ocean with fresh, earthy vegetables and a zesty, buttery sauce. This recipe starts with a beautifully pink, fresh salmon fillet, known for its tender, flaky texture and a taste that’s both subtle and rich. The salmon is seasoned lightly, allowing its natural flavors to shine, and then placed on a large piece of foil.
Alongside the salmon, slender spears of asparagus are arranged. These green stalks add a crunchy texture and a slightly grassy, yet sweet taste that complements the fish wonderfully. Asparagus is not just a side; it’s a crucial component that balances the dish with its freshness.
The real star that brings this ensemble together is the garlic lemon butter sauce. This sauce is a harmonious blend of melted butter, which provides a creamy, indulgent base, minced garlic infusing a pungent, aromatic kick, and freshly squeezed lemon juice adding a bright, citrusy zing. This sauce is generously spooned over the salmon and asparagus, ensuring every bite is infused with its rich flavors.
The entire preparation is then wrapped in the foil, creating a sealed packet. This method is ingenious for a few reasons. It allows the salmon and asparagus to steam gently in the butter sauce, ensuring they cook evenly while retaining all their juices and flavors. The foil packet also makes for an easy cleanup, as everything is contained within.
Once baked, the salmon emerges perfectly cooked – moist and flaky, while the asparagus is tender yet crisp. The aroma that wafts out as you open the foil is mouthwatering, a heady mix of butter, garlic, and lemon.
This dish isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s visually appealing too. The rich pink of the salmon contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green of the asparagus, and the glossy, golden sauce drizzled over the top adds a touch of elegance. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but also has the sophistication for a special occasion. The ease of preparation, combined with the luxurious result, makes this baked salmon in foil with asparagus and garlic lemon butter sauce a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients:
°4 salmon fillets, skinless
°1 pound (454 grams) asparagus tips
°1/3 cup (75 grams) melted butter
°1/3 cup (125 ml) lemon juice
°4 minced garlic cloves
°2 teaspoons (10ml) chopped fresh parsley
°Salt and pepper
°2/3 cup (65 grams) grated fresh parmesan cheese
°Parsley and lemon wedges to garnish
PREPARATION:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the salmon fillets in the center of a 12”x18” (30×45 cm) sheet of aluminum foil, each. Divide the asparagus into four equal portions and place them around the salmon.
In a bowl, combine the butter, lemon juice, garlic and parsley. Pour over the salmon and asparagus, season with salt and pepper to taste and top with 2 to 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
Close the aluminum foil and seal the sides tightly, in foil.
Enjoy !