Name: Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1 bunch asparagus spears, trimmed; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 4 lemon slices; 1 tablespoon olive oil

There’s something beautifully simple and satisfying about a meal that bakes all in one foil packet. This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce isn’t just easy to prepare, it delivers restaurant-worthy flavor with minimal effort. The salmon comes out flaky and tender, infused with the rich, buttery tang of lemon and garlic, while the asparagus roasts to crisp-tender perfection right beside it. It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but is totally doable on a weeknight.

Wrapped tightly in foil, the ingredients lock in moisture and flavor, creating a steamy oven environment that keeps the fish juicy. The buttery garlic sauce pools underneath, infusing every bite with luscious citrus and herb notes. Whether you’re making this for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, this baked salmon recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Effortless Clean-Up: The foil packet means you won’t need a sink full of dishes.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s, protein, and fiber-rich asparagus.
Elegant Yet Simple: It looks gourmet but takes under 30 minutes.
Flavor-Packed: Butter, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs elevate the natural flavors of the salmon.
Customizable: Add cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, or swap in broccolini for variety.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the most out of this easy baked salmon dish, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference:

Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil: Crucial for making leak-proof packets that hold in moisture and flavor.
Baking Sheet: Supports the foil packets and catches any possible drips. Choose one with raised edges.
Small Saucepan or Microwave-Safe Bowl: Needed for melting the butter and infusing it with garlic.
Microplane or Citrus Zester: Extracts fine zest from the lemon to maximize citrus aroma.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For trimming the asparagus and slicing lemons and herbs.
Tongs or Fish Spatula: Helps remove the cooked salmon without breaking it apart.

Having these tools ready ensures a smooth prep process and restaurant-quality results every time.

Ingredients for the Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Salmon Fillets: Center-cut, skinless salmon fillets are ideal for even cooking and flavor absorption.
Asparagus Spears: Fresh asparagus adds a crisp texture and earthy contrast to the rich salmon.
Unsalted Butter: Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce, delivering richness and flavor.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds bold aroma and a savory kick.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds brightness and acidity that balances the buttery richness.
Fresh Parsley: Brings a burst of freshness and color at the end.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple yet essential for enhancing all the ingredients.
Lemon Slices: Baked on top for visual appeal and a touch of extra citrus.
Olive Oil: Used to coat the asparagus, ensuring they roast beautifully.

How To Make the Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty foil and cut another piece large enough to fold over the salmon and seal it into a packet.

Step 2: Arrange the Asparagus Base

Place the trimmed asparagus spears in the center of the foil and drizzle with olive oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This acts as a flavorful, crisp bed for the salmon.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Add the Salmon and Flavor Layers

Place the salmon fillet on top of the asparagus. Season it with salt and pepper. Spoon the garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon. Top with thin lemon slices.

Step 5: Seal and Bake

Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to completely enclose the packet. Make sure it is sealed to trap in steam. Bake for 15-18 minutes, depending on thickness.

Step 6: Unwrap and Finish

Carefully open the foil packet (watch for steam). Broil for 2-3 minutes if you’d like a slight char. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with pan juices spooned on top.

Serving and Storing Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Serve this dish hot, directly from the foil or transferred gently to a plate. Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a warm crusty bread to soak up the garlic lemon butter sauce. A side of herbed couscous or a crisp cucumber salad would also be a great complement.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon and asparagus in a covered dish and warm gently in the oven at 300°F until just heated through. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the fish from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink center. An instant-read thermometer should register 135°F to 140°F in the thickest part.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but it must be fully thawed and patted dry before baking. Excess moisture from frozen fish can make the sauce watery.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

Broccolini, green beans, or zucchini ribbons all work well. Choose quick-cooking vegetables so everything finishes at the same time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the foil packets a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Do I have to use foil?

Foil helps trap moisture and infuse flavor, but parchment paper is a great alternative. Just ensure it’s sealed tightly to steam properly.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your butter and any added seasonings are certified if needed.

Want More Salmon Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this foil-baked salmon, you’ll enjoy exploring more salmon-based or seafood dinner recipes that bring bold flavor and easy prep to your table. Here are a few favorites worth trying next:

Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli for a hearty, comforting tray-bake.
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach Parmesan when you want something elegant and cheesy.
Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle as a coastal-inspired appetizer or light main dish.
Jumbo Shrimp in Butter Garlic Sauce for garlic lovers who want to mix it up with shrimp.
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime Chili Sauce if you’re leaning into bright, zesty flavors.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it whenever you’re craving something light yet buttery and indulgent.

And if you gave it a try, let us know in the comments below! Did you add any twist like red chili flakes or swap asparagus for broccolini? I’m always curious how you make these recipes your own.

Need more inspiration? Check out my daily meal ideas over on Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate.