When it comes to healthy and flavorful dinners that are easy to prepare and clean up, nothing beats foil-baked meals. This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a dinner that brings elegance to your table without the fuss. Perfectly seasoned salmon fillets are paired with tender asparagus spears and smothered in a zesty, aromatic garlic lemon butter sauce. Wrapped in foil and baked to perfection, this dish locks in moisture and flavor, creating a melt-in-your-mouth result.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire winner. Not only is it packed with omega-3s and vitamins, but it’s also low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. And the best part? No pile of dirty dishes waiting afterward!
Prep and Cook Time:
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 2–4
Ingredients:
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2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless or skin-on)
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1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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2 teaspoons lemon zest
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
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2 lemon slices (for garnish)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Foil sheets (heavy-duty preferred)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut two large sheets of aluminum foil, enough to fully wrap each salmon fillet and a portion of asparagus.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packs
Place a salmon fillet in the center of each foil sheet. Arrange a handful of asparagus spears alongside each fillet. Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus. Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Place one lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet. Fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing the edges tightly to create a packet. Make sure there’s a little space inside the packet for heat to circulate.
Step 4: Bake
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. To check for doneness, the salmon should easily flake with a fork and the asparagus should be tender-crisp.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Carefully open the foil packets (watch for hot steam!). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, directly in the foil or plated over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors wrapped up in one simple package. The foil-sealed technique ensures every bite is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Plus, the minimal prep and cleanup make it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Want to switch it up? Try adding cherry tomatoes, swapping the asparagus for green beans, or tossing in a few red pepper flakes for some heat. However you tweak it, this dish remains a go-to favorite for its healthy profile and restaurant-quality taste.
So the next time you’re wondering what to make with that salmon in the fridge, wrap it in foil and let the oven do the magic. You won’t be disappointed!