Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packs

 

4 boneless skineless salmon fillets

salt and pepper to taste

1 pound asparagus – ends trimmed

1 lemon – thinly sliced, (plus additional wedges for garnish)

½ cup butter – at room temperature

3 teaspoons Italian seasoning – or Herbs de Provence, see note

3 teaspoons minced garlic

Ffresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

 

Season salmon generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange one salmon fillet and 1/4 of the asparagus in the center of one 12×12 inch piece of foil. Repeat with remaining salmon and asparagus on 3 other pieces of foil. Slide lemon slices under the salmon and asparagus.

In a small bowl mix butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Drop large dollops of the herb butter on top of the salmon and asparagus. Fold the foil tightly around the salmon and asparagus, being sure to seal the ends together tightly so the juices and butter doesn’t run out while cooking. Grill over medium high heat for 6-8 minutes on each side, OR bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, until asparagus is tender and salmon is flaky. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top and serve immediately.  Notes:  These foil packs can easily be made in the oven instead of on the grill. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and place foil packs directly on your oven rack (positioned in about the center of the oven) or on a sheet pan, and bake for about 15 minutes til salmon is opaque and asparagus is tender. For a little added color you can open the foil packs and broil for 1-2 minutes!