Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is an incredibly simple yet flavorful dish that brings the best of both worlds: tender, flaky salmon paired with fresh asparagus and the richness of a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or special occasions. The foil-baking method ensures that all the flavors meld together while keeping the fish moist and tender. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal meal for busy cooks who still want something healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
3 tablespoons butter, melted
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece.
Arrange asparagus around the salmon on the foil.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets and asparagus.
Season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
Fold the sides of the foil up to create a packet, sealing the edges tightly.
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Carefully open the foil packets and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add more veggies: Try adding additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the foil packets for more flavor and color.
Use different herbs: Swap the parsley for thyme, dill, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Swap the fish: While salmon is ideal, this recipe also works well with other fish like trout, cod, or halibut.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon and asparagus back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the texture may not be as optimal as oven reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you’re unsure, check with a meat thermometer.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for best results.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free option.

Can I cook this recipe on the grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can grill the foil packets over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring the salmon is fully cooked.

Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the foil packets in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re chilled.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

Baking the salmon in foil helps lock in moisture. Be sure to not overcook it, as salmon can dry out quickly. Check for doneness after 18 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your butter and any other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Can I use a different vegetable instead of asparagus?

Yes! You can substitute asparagus with green beans, broccoli, or even sliced potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for different vegetables.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

If you prefer a creamy sauce, you can add a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or sour cream to the butter sauce mixture before pouring it over the salmon.

Conclusion

This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is an easy, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s sure to impress. With its rich lemony flavor and tender salmon, it’s perfect for any occasion. The foil method ensures minimal mess, while the garlic butter sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation!

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce – So Easy, So Flavorful!

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This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is the perfect combination of easy and flavorful! The salmon stays tender and juicy, while the fresh asparagus is perfectly roasted in a buttery, garlicky lemon sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a healthy and delicious option that the whole family will love.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lay out a large piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet.
Place the salmon fillets in the center of the foil.
Arrange the trimmed asparagus around the salmon fillets.
Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and salmon, and season with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme (if using).
Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus.
Fold the edges of the foil over the salmon and asparagus to create a sealed packet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Carefully remove the foil packet from the oven and open it. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on the asparagus before baking.
The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so be sure to check the doneness.
You can also substitute the asparagus with other vegetables like green beans or broccoli.