Introduction
This dish brings together the delicate richness of baked salmon with the freshness of asparagus and a zesty garlic lemon butter sauce. Cooking it in foil locks in moisture and flavor, creating perfectly tender fish and vibrant vegetables with minimal cleanup.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 2–3)
For the Salmon Packets:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 180–200g each)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
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Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and prepare 2 large sheets of aluminum foil. - Prepare the Asparagus Base
Divide the asparagus evenly between the foil sheets. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss lightly. - Add the Salmon Fillets
Place a salmon fillet on top of each asparagus pile. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice. - Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and optional honey or red pepper flakes. Stir well. - Assemble and Seal the Packets
Spoon the sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus. Fold the foil over the fish and seal tightly to trap the steam. - Bake
Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.
For extra golden edges, open the foil during the last 2 minutes and broil briefly. - Serve
Carefully open the foil (beware of steam), garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Foil-baked fish is a modern adaptation of en papillote, a French cooking method where food is baked in parchment or foil to retain moisture and aroma. This style has spread worldwide for its simplicity, healthiness, and beautiful presentation.
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Description
Each bite of this dish delivers buttery salmon infused with citrus and garlic, balanced by crisp-tender asparagus. The sauce melts into a silky layer of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.
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Optional Additions
- Cherry tomatoes for color and acidity
- Capers or olives for briny contrast
- Fresh dill or thyme instead of parsley
- A splash of white wine in the sauce for depth
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Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake — salmon is best when just flaky and moist.
- Choose wild-caught salmon for richer flavor and texture.
- Use heavy-duty foil or double-layer if cooking on a grill.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~380 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Omega-3s: High
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Conclusion and Recommendation
This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can produce a restaurant-quality meal. The foil method makes cleanup easy, while the lemon garlic butter transforms ordinary salmon into a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoying salmon this way lets you indulge in rich, buttery flavors while nourishing your body with essential omega-3s, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s the perfect harmony of comfort, elegance, and wellness — all wrapped in foil.