🍋 Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless or skin-on as preferred)

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 tbsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• Lemon slices (for garnish)

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Foil Packs:
   Cut 4 large pieces of aluminum foil and lightly oil or spray them.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, and paprika.

4. Assemble:

   • Place a handful of asparagus in the center of each foil sheet.

   • Place salmon fillet on top.

   • Pour lemon garlic butter sauce generously over salmon and asparagus.

   • Top with lemon slices.

5. Seal and Bake:
   Fold the foil tightly into packets. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness of salmon.

6. Finish:
   Carefully open the packets (watch for steam). Garnish with parsley or dill before serving.

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✅ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a light salad.

• A drizzle of extra sauce from the foil packet makes it richer.

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❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before baking for best flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I substitute asparagus?
Absolutely! Try broccoli, green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Q3: How do I know salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.

Q4: Can I make this on the grill instead of oven?
Yes! Place foil packets on a medium-high grill for about 12–15 minutes.

Q5: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble foil packets up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q6: How to make it healthier?
Use olive oil only (skip butter) and reduce salt. Add more fresh herbs for flavor.