Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay each salmon fillet on a large piece of aluminum foil—enough to wrap everything snugly.
- Prepare a handful of asparagus spears right next to each salmon fillet.
- Drizzle olive oil over both the salmon and asparagus. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the chopped garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, melted butter, and chopped parsley.
- Spoon the garlic lemon sauce generously over the salmon and asparagus.
- Carefully wrap the foil tightly around the salmon and asparagus to lock in all the flavors.
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully open the foil packets and transfer the salmon and asparagus to serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices and extra parsley if desired.
- Serve the oven-baked salmon in foil with the asparagus and hot garlic lemon sauce, and enjoy this delightful, healthful dish.
What to serve it with
When it comes to enjoying Oven-Baked Salmon with Asparagus, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or some wild rice for a hearty meal. A simple side of roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad can also complement the dish beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something light, a crisp cucumber salad or a citrus-spinach mix would be delightful forms of contrast to the rich salmon and buttery sauce.
Keeping leftovers fresh
After enjoying this delicious meal, you might wonder how to store any leftovers. The best way to keep this dish fresh is to place the salmon and asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep it from drying out, and it should stay good for about 2-3 days. If you need to reheat it, a gentle warm-up in the oven is preferable to maintain the texture—microwave if you’re in a rush, but be mindful not to overcook it.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your salmon turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh salmon not only tastes better but also brings more nutrition. Don’t skip on the seasoning—salt and pepper elevate the dish significantly. Try not to over-bake the salmon; if it’s flaking easily with a fork, it’s done!
Creative twists
Variety is the spice of life! Consider adding a pinch of your favorite herbs, like thyme or dill, into the foil packets for a different flavor profile. You might also experiment with adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mix. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick, or switch up the butter for herb-infused oils for another layer of flavor.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is roughly 12-15 minutes. You’re looking at a total of around 25-30 minutes from start to finish!
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What if I don’t have aluminum foil?
You can use a baking dish covered with a lid or parchment paper as an alternative to foil, allowing the salmon to steam while baking.
Now you’re all set to create this Oven-Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Sauce masterpiece in your own kitchen! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
