Ingredients:
- 4 Salmon fillets, skinless
- 1 lb (454g) asparagus spears
- 1/3 cup (75g) melted butter
- 1/3 cup (125 ml) lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper
- 2/3 cup (65g) fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
- Parsley and lemon wedges for garnishing
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Foil Packets:
- Place each salmon fillet in the center of a 12”x18” sheet (30 × 45 cm) of aluminum foil. Divide the asparagus into 4 equal portions and arrange them around the salmon.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, chopped garlic, and chopped parsley. Pour this mixture over the salmon and asparagus.
- Season and Add Cheese:
- Season the salmon and asparagus with salt and pepper according to your taste. Sprinkle each packet with 2 to 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Close the Foil Packets:
- Close the aluminum foil tightly around the salmon and asparagus, ensuring that the edges are sealed to create a packet.
- Bake:
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve:
- Carefully open the foil packets and transfer the salmon and asparagus to serving plates. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
- Enjoy!
Tips:
- Personalize the Seasoning:
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the butter mixture for additional flavor. Dill, thyme, or basil would complement the dish nicely.
- Opt for Fresh Ingredients:
- Use fresh salmon fillets and crisp asparagus for the best results. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Customize with Vegetables:
- Experiment with different vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to create variety in your foil packets.
- Ensure Proper Sealing:
- Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly to trap steam and ensure even cooking. This helps to keep the salmon moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Accompaniments:
- Serve the salmon and asparagus foil packets with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad would also complement the meal nicely.
With these simple steps and tips, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal of salmon and asparagus baked in foil packets. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this easy-to-make dish!
FAQs:
- Can I use salmon with skin for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use salmon fillets with the skin on if you prefer. Just make sure to place the skin side down on the foil when assembling the packets.
- Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
- Absolutely! This recipe works well with other types of fish such as trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fish fillets.
- Can I add other vegetables to the foil packets?
- Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or thinly sliced onions to the packets. Just make sure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
- The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
- Can I grill these foil packets instead of baking them?
- Yes, you can grill the foil packets over medium heat for a similar amount of time, approximately 15-20 minutes. Make sure to place the packets on the grill with the seam side facing up to prevent leakage.
- Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
- While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen asparagus if that’s what you have available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using in the recipe.
- How do I prevent the foil packets from leaking during baking?
- Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly by folding the edges together securely. Double-check the seals to ensure there are no gaps where the sauce could leak out.
These FAQs provide answers to common questions about making salmon and asparagus foil packets, helping you create a delicious and hassle-free meal. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this versatile dish!