Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

If you’re craving a healthy and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up, this Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is the answer. Tender, flaky salmon is wrapped in foil with crisp asparagus, then smothered in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a foolproof recipe that delivers gourmet results with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in one foil packet for easy prep and cleanup.
Perfectly Moist – Foil baking seals in juices, keeping the salmon tender.
Full of Flavor – Lemon, garlic, and butter combine for a zesty, rich sauce.
Nutritious and Balanced – High in protein, omega-3s, and packed with veggies.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon and Asparagus:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four large sheets of foil (about 12×16 inches each) and place them on a clean surface.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard (if using), oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Set aside for assembly.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Divide the trimmed asparagus evenly among the four foil sheets, placing them in the center.
2. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place one salmon fillet on top of each asparagus bed.
4. Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over each piece of salmon.
5. Top each fillet with 2–3 thin lemon slices.
6. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Step 4: Seal and Bake

1. Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a packet, sealing tightly so steam stays inside.
2. Place the packets on a baking sheet.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness.
4. For a crisp top, carefully open the packets and broil for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Carefully open the foil packets—watch out for hot steam.
2. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the salmon and asparagus.
3. Serve directly from the foil or transfer to plates with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon
Choose Fresh Salmon – Look for firm, bright-colored fillets with no strong odor.
Thin Asparagus Is Best – It cooks at the same rate as the salmon.
Don’t Overcook – Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Add Broil Time – For slightly crispy edges, broil for a few minutes at the end.
Double the Sauce – If you love sauce, make extra and drizzle it over rice or quinoa.

Serving Suggestions
Rice Pilaf – Soaks up the lemon garlic butter beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A comforting, creamy side to complement the salmon.
Couscous or Quinoa – Light, fluffy, and perfect for catching the sauce.
Mixed Greens Salad – Keep things fresh with a vinaigrette-tossed salad.
Crusty Bread – Use it to mop up the leftover sauce in the foil packets.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze with asparagus, as it may become mushy.

Reheating:

• Oven: Place in foil and reheat at 325°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat gently on 50% power to avoid overcooking the salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
   Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?
   Definitely! Try zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
3. What if I don’t have foil?
   You can use parchment paper and fold it into packets (en papillote style).
4. Is this recipe low-carb?
   Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative in the sauce.

Final Thoughts
This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is a simple, healthy, and elegant dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes. From the perfectly cooked salmon to the vibrant asparagus and zesty sauce, every bite is pure comfort and satisfaction.

Try it tonight and see why this foil-baked salmon recipe is a favorite! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 34g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 430mg

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