Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

 Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

A Healthy, Flavorful, and Foolproof Salmon Recipe

There’s something truly magical about baked salmon in foil—it’s juicy, tender, and infused with bold flavors while requiring minimal effort. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for a special dinner. The combination of fresh salmon, crisp asparagus, and a rich lemon garlic butter sauce creates an irresistible meal packed with nutrition and taste. Plus, baking it in foil locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is flaky and delicious.

If you love quick, healthy, and restaurant-quality meals at home, this easy baked salmon recipe is a must-try!

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins.

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

✔ One-Pan Cleanup – Foil packets make cleaning up effortless.

✔ Perfectly Moist & Flaky – The foil traps steam, keeping the salmon juicy.

✔ Customizable – Swap asparagus for your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to your taste.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Salmon Packets:

4 (6 oz) salmon fillets – The star of the dish, rich in healthy fats and packed with flavor.

1 lb asparagus, trimmed – A nutritious, fiber-rich vegetable that pairs perfectly with salmon.

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and enhances flavor.

4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the salmon with a deep, aromatic taste.

1 lemon, sliced – Provides brightness and a refreshing citrusy balance.

1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme) – A fragrant herb that complements the garlic butter sauce.

Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the dish’s natural flavors.

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – A final touch of freshness and color.

Aluminum foil – Traps moisture and flavors, ensuring a perfectly cooked dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Foil Packets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12x14 inches each).

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. This creates the flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce.

2. Assemble the Salmon Packets

Place one salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.

Arrange asparagus around the salmon fillets.

Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon and asparagus.

Place a couple of lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet.

3. Seal the Foil Packets

Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus.

Fold the ends tightly to create a sealed packet, ensuring the steam stays inside for a moist and flavorful result.

4. Bake the Salmon

Place the foil packets on a baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes (depending on the thickness of the salmon).

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Serve & Enjoy

Carefully open the foil packets (be cautious of the steam!).

Transfer the salmon and asparagus to plates.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

✅ Use Fresh Salmon – If possible, opt for wild-caught salmon for the best texture and taste.

✅ Don’t Overcook – Salmon is best when tender and flaky. Overcooking can make it dry.

✅ Customize the Veggies – Swap asparagus for zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for variety.

✅ Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

✅ Use Parchment Paper – If you prefer, use parchment paper instead of foil for a more eco-friendly option.

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What to Serve with Baked Salmon in Foil

✨ Rice or Quinoa – A light, fluffy grain balances the richness of the salmon.

✨ Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, comforting side dish.

✨ Crisp Salad – A fresh arugula or Greek salad pairs beautifully with the citrusy salmon.

✨ Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.

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Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Elegant Salmon Dish

This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is the ultimate easy dinner recipe—healthy, flavorful, and ready in no time. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Try it today and experience the perfect bala

nce of freshness, richness, and convenience!

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your experience!