This baked salmon in a foil pack is a real winner! It’s super easy and packed with zesty lemon and buttery garlic goodness. Plus, clean-up is a breeze—just toss the foil!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just pop it in the oven and you’ve got a tasty dinner in no time. Pair it with your favorite veggies, and voilà, dinner done! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is key. If you can’t find it, try using trout or tilapia. Both have a similar texture and flavor that works well with this recipe. I also enjoy wild-caught salmon for its taste and sustainability.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and nutrition. If it’s out of season, you can substitute with green beans or zucchini, as they cook similarly. I often add a mix of colored bell peppers for variety and color!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives great flavor, but feel free to use ghee for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, olive oil works well too, plus it adds extra healthy fats.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is perfect here. If you’re short on time, using garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh definitely elevates the dish. I like to add a bit more garlic for extra kick!
How Do I Prepare the Perfect Foil Pack?
Foil packs are super convenient! To seal them properly, make sure to leave some space around the edges for steam to circulate. Here’s how to do it:
- Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing. If you only have regular foil, double it up.
- Place the salmon and veggies in the center, then fold the sides over to meet in the middle and seal the ends tightly. This keeps everything juicy.
- If you like a little char, **open the packets for the last few minutes** of baking to expose the salmon. Just be careful of the hot steam!
This technique not only keeps the flavors intact but also makes clean-up a breeze. Plus, it’s fun to unwrap and see the delicious dish you’ve created!
Easy Baked Salmon Foil Pack with Lemon Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
For the Lemon Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra juice if desired)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy meal option. You’ll have everything ready in about 30 minutes or less, which is perfect for a busy weeknight family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your salmon cooks perfectly and the flavors meld nicely.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Next, tear off two large sheets of aluminum foil. Each piece should be large enough to hold one salmon fillet and some asparagus. Make sure you have enough space to fold the foil over and seal it well.
3. Arrange the Salmon and Asparagus:
Place a salmon fillet right in the center of each piece of foil. Next, arrange half of the trimmed asparagus alongside each salmon fillet. This way, both the protein and veggie can cook together.
4. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will give your salmon and asparagus that delicious flavor!
5. Drizzle and Add Lemon:
Take your lemon garlic butter mixture and drizzle it evenly over both the salmon and asparagus. Then, place two thin lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet for added zest. This will enhance the flavor and give a beautiful presentation!
6. Prepare to Seal:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the asparagus and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps the asparagus roast beautifully. Now it’s time to seal up the foil packs!
7. Seal the Foil Packs:
Gently fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, bringing them together at the center. Fold the ends up tightly to seal the packets. You want to keep all the yummy juices inside while it bakes!
8. Bake:
Place the sealed foil packets onto a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s done, and the asparagus will be tender.
9. Serve:
Once your salmon is cooked, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam!). Serve your dish immediately, and if you like, squeeze a little extra fresh lemon juice over the top before digging in. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe results in a flavorful, moist salmon dinner with tender asparagus, all cooked in one easy foil packet! Great for any night of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely beforehand. The best way to thaw it is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the salmon from becoming rubbery.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or zucchini make great substitutes. Both have a similar cooking time and will work beautifully with the lemon garlic butter. If you prefer, you could also mix in bell peppers for added color and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook, which can dry out the salmon.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the foil packets in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to reduce the cooking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge. Enjoy having a quick, healthy meal ready to pop in the oven!
