Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon Recipe
- One-pan cleanup: Everything cooks in a foil packet—no mess, no stress.
- Nutritious & low-carb: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich veggies.
- Ready in under 30 minutes: Perfect for busy schedules.
- Incredibly flavorful: The garlic lemon butter infuses the fish and asparagus as they bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for serving
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick!
️ How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, or prepare individual foil sheets for each portion.
Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients
Place the trimmed asparagus in the center of the foil and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Lay the salmon fillets over the asparagus.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Wrap
Spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce generously over the salmon fillets. Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and seal tightly to create a packet.
Step 5: Bake
Place the foil packets on the baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Carefully open the foil packets (watch for steam). Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving. Serve directly in the foil or plate with your favorite side dish.
Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon
- Don’t overcook it! Salmon continues to cook after you remove it from the oven. Pull it out when it’s just starting to flake.
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness of fresh.
- Foil seals in flavor. Make sure to close the foil tightly to keep moisture and flavor locked in.
- Mix up the veggies. You can substitute asparagus with green beans, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
What to Serve with Baked Salmon in Foil
This dish is complete on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some delicious pairings:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- A fresh green salad
- Crusty bread to soak up the lemon butter sauce
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store: Let the salmon cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or lemon juice.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
(Note: These are approximate values.)
Final Thoughts
Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a staple recipe that hits all the marks—easy, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a go-to for healthy eating, meal prep, or a dinner that impresses with minimal effort. The lemon garlic butter adds a tangy, rich flavor that turns simple ingredients into something special.
Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just love a good salmon dish, this recipe will be one you come back to again and again.