Imagine a meal that’s as effortless to prepare as it is delicious to eat—a dish that brings together the tender flakiness of salmon, the crispness of asparagus, and the rich, savory blend of garlic, butter, and lemon. This baked salmon recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, wrapped up in a neat little foil packet. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner, this recipe will impress without any of the stress. The magic of this dish lies in its preparation: the salmon and asparagus steam together in their own juices, enhanced by a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce that seeps into every bite. The result? A meal that’s bursting with freshness and richness, ready in just minutes. Plus, this dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious option that supports a healthy lifestyle. It’s perfect for those on low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diets. Let’s dive into this quick and flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) salmon fillets, divided
- 2 tablespoons vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce (like Sriracha)
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons butter, diced into small cubes (or ghee)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
- 1 lb (450g) medium-thick asparagus, woody ends trimmed
Directions:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Start by cutting 2 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 14 by 12 inches (35 x 30 cm). Lay the foil sheets out flat on your countertop. In a small bowl, combine the broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
- Season and Assemble: Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place the salmon in the center of each foil sheet. Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears alongside the salmon, running in the same direction as the foil.
- Add Flavor: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the salmon fillets, followed by a generous drizzle of the broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce mixture. Next, evenly distribute the butter cubes on top of the salmon and asparagus.
- Wrap it Up: Carefully fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, crimping the edges to seal the packets. Make sure to leave some space inside the packets to allow the heat to circulate during baking.
- Bake: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Once done, carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the hot steam. Drizzle with additional lemon juice, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, nutritious meal!
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Concerns:
This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Asparagus adds a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and is low in calories. The combination of these ingredients makes this meal suitable for low-carb, gluten-free, and keto diets. The use of fresh lemon juice and herbs adds brightness without adding extra calories, making this dish not only delicious but also a wise choice for those watching their waistline.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
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