When it comes to healthy dinners that don’t compromise on flavor, Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is a standout. This simple yet elegant recipe delivers flaky, buttery salmon and tender asparagus, all infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s low-carb, protein-rich, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and takes only minutes to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping, serving guests, or cooking a weeknight dinner, this dish is clean, flavorful, and effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Foil-Baked Salmon Recipe
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One-pan clean-up: Everything cooks in foil, minimizing mess
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Perfectly moist salmon thanks to the sealed cooking method
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Nutrient-dense with lean protein and fiber-rich asparagus
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Customizable with your favorite seasonings and vegetables
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Great for meal prep—make several foil packets ahead of time
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon Foil Packets:
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2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
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2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or use fresh parsley, thyme, or dill)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Lemon slices (for garnish)
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Aluminum foil (heavy-duty preferred)
Optional Additions:
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Cherry tomatoes for added sweetness and color
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Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top after baking
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A dash of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature for the fish and veggies.
Step 2: Prep the Foil and Ingredients
Tear two large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12-14 inches each). Lightly grease the center with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Place the asparagus spears in the center of each foil sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Lay the salmon fillet on top of the asparagus. Rub it with minced garlic, drizzle with olive oil or butter, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Sprinkle with herbs, lemon zest, more salt and pepper, and top with lemon slices for extra flavor.
Step 3: Seal the Foil Packets
Bring the long sides of the foil up and over the salmon, folding the edges to seal tightly. Then fold in the sides to completely enclose the packet, leaving some room inside for air to circulate and steam the ingredients.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. A thicker cut may need 22–25 minutes.
Internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Open the foil packets carefully—watch out for steam! Transfer the salmon and asparagus to a plate or serve directly in the foil for a rustic presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs, an extra squeeze of lemon, or grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Foil-Baked Salmon
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Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture
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Don’t overcook—foil traps steam and cooks fish faster than open baking
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For extra richness, dot the salmon with butter before sealing the packet
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Mix up the herbs with rosemary, dill, or chives for different flavor profiles
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Use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing or leaking juices in the oven
Substitutions and Variations
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Vegetables: Try broccoli, zucchini, snap peas, or carrots in place of asparagus
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Fish: Substitute salmon with cod, halibut, or tilapia
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Sauces: Add a drizzle of honey mustard, teriyaki, or pesto for a flavor twist
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Grill it: Cook the foil packets on a grill over medium heat for 12–15 minutes
Meal Prep and Storage
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Prep ahead: Assemble foil packets a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet over medium-low heat
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Freezer-friendly: You can freeze uncooked packets for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Perfect Pairings
Round out your meal with these delicious sides and drinks:
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Garlic herb rice or quinoa
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Crispy roasted potatoes or sweet potato wedges
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A light arugula or spinach salad
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Glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
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Sparkling lemon water for a refreshing non-alcoholic option
Conclusion: A Foolproof Healthy Dinner
Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is more than just a healthy meal—it’s a restaurant-quality dish you can make in your own kitchen with minimal effort and cleanup. With tender salmon, vibrant asparagus, and zesty lemon all wrapped up in foil, this meal is the perfect combination of flavor, convenience, and nutrition.
