Name: Baked Salmon with Asparagus, Lemon, Garlic and Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable or chicken broth; 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice (or to taste); 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Sriracha works wonderfully); 4 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves); 1 pinch salt (to taste); 1 pinch ground black pepper (to taste); 3-4 tablespoons butter (cut into small cubes (or margarine)); 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish); 450 grams medium-thick asparagus (woody ends trimmed)

This Baked Salmon with Asparagus dish brings together the fresh flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with tender, flaky salmon and perfectly roasted asparagus, all wrapped in a rich butter sauce. This easy-to-prepare, one-pan recipe is not only delicious but also ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon and Asparagus:

Simple, One-Pan Meal: With just one sheet of foil per fillet, this recipe makes both cooking and cleanup a breeze.
Tender and Flavorful: The lemon garlic butter sauce keeps the salmon moist, adding flavor to every bite.
Quick Cooking Time: The entire meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Nutritious and Balanced: High in protein, omega-3s, and fiber, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Elegant Presentation: The foil packets make for a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.

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Key Ingredients:

1. Salmon Fillets

Quality Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
Portion Size: If the fillets are thick, you may need to bake them for an extra couple of minutes to ensure even cooking.
Skin-On or Skin-Off: Either works well, but skin-on salmon can help keep the fillets intact and moist.

2. Broth

Adding Flavor: Vegetable or chicken broth adds a mild savory flavor to the sauce without overpowering the lemon and garlic.
Substitute: You can use white wine for a bit of acidity and depth if preferred.

3. Lemon Juice

Bright and Tangy: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal for adding brightness and balancing the richness of the butter.
Extra Lemon Slices: Add a couple of lemon slices on top of the salmon before sealing the packets for extra zest.

4. Garlic

Adds Depth: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with a delicious, aromatic flavor that complements both the salmon and asparagus.
Substitute: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use garlic powder or roasted garlic instead.

5. Butter

Rich and Flavorful: Butter adds a creamy, velvety texture to the sauce, which keeps the salmon moist and gives the asparagus a nice glaze.
Alternative: For a dairy-free option, use margarine or olive oil.

6. Asparagus

Fresh and Tender: Medium-thick asparagus stalks work best for even cooking; trim the woody ends for tender results.
Alternative Vegetables: Broccoli florets, green beans, or zucchini can be used if asparagus isn’t available.

7. Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro)

Brightens the Dish: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the garlic butter sauce.
Other Options: Fresh dill or basil can also be used for a different flavor profile.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Foil

Preheat: Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare Foil: Cut two 14×12-inch sheets of heavy-duty foil and lay them flat for making individual packets.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Combine Sauce: In a small bowl, mix broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce (like Sriracha).
Prepare Garlic Butter: Add minced garlic and butter cubes to the sauce mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

Season Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry, then season with salt and pepper.
Prepare Asparagus: Trim ends and arrange asparagus on one side of each foil sheet.
Arrange on Foil: Place each salmon fillet near the center of each foil sheet.
Add Sauce and Butter: Sprinkle garlic, drizzle sauce, and place butter cubes over salmon and asparagus.

Step 4: Seal and Bake

Seal Packets: Fold and crimp foil edges to seal, leaving space for heat to circulate.
Bake: Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 9-12 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and asparagus is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Unwrap Carefully: Open packets, being cautious of steam. Drizzle with more lemon juice if desired.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley or cilantro, and serve alongside rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions:

This baked salmon with asparagus pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Rice or Quinoa: Serve with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up any extra garlic butter sauce.
Roasted Potatoes: Serve with a side of crispy roasted potatoes for a satisfying, balanced meal.
Simple Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the salmon and asparagus.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

This meal is best enjoyed fresh, but here are some tips for storing and reheating:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may deepen as the dish sits.
Freezing: For best results, it’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the salmon and asparagus can change. However, you can freeze uncooked, seasoned salmon fillets in foil packets for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can overcook the salmon.

Variations to Try:

Customize this recipe with these tasty variations:

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add a layer of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill on top of the salmon for an herby crust.
Cajun-Spiced: Swap the Sriracha for Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
Mediterranean-Style: Add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta to the packets for a Mediterranean flavor.
Garlic Lemon Shrimp and Asparagus: Replace salmon with large shrimp for a quick-cooking, seafood alternative.

Conclusion:

This Baked Salmon with Asparagus in Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is a simple, elegant dish that brings out the best in fresh ingredients. With tender salmon, crisp asparagus, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy each bite of this light, flavorful, and wholesome meal!