This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is everything you want in a weeknight dinner easy, flavorful, healthy, and ready in 30 minutes flat. Each portion is wrapped in foil and baked to juicy, flaky perfection with tender asparagus and a bright, buttery lemon garlic sauce that infuses every bite. It’s a no-mess, no-fuss meal that feels gourmet but takes very little effort.

Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon in Foil

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe hits the sweet spot between simplicity and flavor:

One-Pan Magic: Cook everything in a foil packet easy prep and no cleanup.
Healthy and Satisfying: Loaded with lean protein, omega-3s, and veggies.
Customizable: Use your favorite herbs, veggies, or add a pinch of chili for spice.
Fast & Foolproof: Even if you’re not confident cooking fish, this method guarantees juicy, tender salmon.
Great for Meal Prep: Pack up leftovers or prep packets in advance for a quick bake later.

Ingredients in Baked Salmon Foil Packets

Salmon Fillets (skinless or skin-on): Fresh or previously frozen and thawed.
Asparagus: Trimmed ends, ideally thin spears for faster cooking.
Lemon Juice & Slices: For freshness and zing.
Garlic (minced): Adds rich flavor to the butter sauce.
Butter (melted): The base of the sauce rich, smooth, and savory.
Olive Oil: Keeps everything moist and adds healthy fats.
Fresh Parsley (or dill): For brightness and color.
Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: For seasoning and a subtle kick.

(Exact quantities listed in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.

Make the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Assemble Foil Packets:
Place salmon fillets in the center of each piece of foil. Surround with trimmed asparagus.
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet and veggie bundle.
Top each salmon with a lemon slice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Seal & Bake:
Fold the foil over the salmon and seal tightly to form a packet.
Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes (depending on thickness of salmon).
Open the foil carefully and broil for 1–2 minutes if you want crispy edges.

Serve: Plate straight from the packet or serve over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: ~360
Protein: ~30g | Carbs: ~5g | Fat: ~24g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes

How to Serve Baked Salmon in Foil

Over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a filling, wholesome meal.
With roasted potatoes or mashed cauliflower for a comforting dinner.
Next to a light garden salad or cucumber-dill yogurt sauce for extra freshness.
As-is straight from the foil for easy cleanup and rustic appeal.

Additional Tips

Make sure your asparagus isn’t too thick or it won’t cook fully or blanch it beforehand.
Don’t overcook the salmon check for doneness around 14–15 minutes.
Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or baby spinach for a veggie twist.
Use fresh dill or thyme instead of parsley for a change in flavor.
Swap salmon for cod or trout if preferred adjust cooking time as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I prep this meal ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the packets and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

2. What type of salmon works best?
Atlantic, sockeye, or coho all work great just adjust time based on thickness.

3. How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F (63°C) internal temp.

4. Can I grill the foil packets instead?
Yes! Place on medium-high grill for 12–15 minutes with lid closed.

5. Can I use frozen salmon?
Thaw it first for even cooking and best texture.

6. Is there a dairy-free option?
Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

7. What else can I add to the foil packet?
Sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are great additions.

8. How spicy is this recipe?
It’s very mild the red pepper flakes add just a touch of heat.

9. Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely thyme, dill, chives, or even rosemary work well.

10. What wine pairs with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemon-garlic flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome meal with vibrant flavor and zero cleanup stress, Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is your go-to recipe. It’s light, luscious, and filled with fresh ingredients that work together like magic. Give it a try your taste buds (and your dishwashing hands) will thank you!

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