Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Foil
- Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long. You will use each piece to create a packet for the salmon and asparagus.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Assemble the Foil Packets
- Place one salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.
- Arrange a handful of asparagus around the salmon fillet.
- Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
Step 5: Seal the Foil Packets
- Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, then fold the ends to seal the packets completely. Make sure they are tightly sealed to keep the moisture in during cooking.
Step 6: Bake the Salmon
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender but still crisp.
Step 7: Serve
- Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!) and transfer the salmon and asparagus to plates.
- Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic butter sauce from the packets over the salmon and asparagus.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Leftover salmon and asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can place the salmon and asparagus in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave in short intervals until heated through.
This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is a wonderfully flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the fresh flavors and ease of cleanup that foil packets provide!