Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

 Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

A Flavor-Packed, Easy, and Healthy Dinner That Tastes Gourmet

When it comes to a meal that's effortless, elegant, and outrageously delicious, nothing beats Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce. This standout dish combines the tender, flaky richness of salmon with the fresh crunch of asparagus, all enveloped in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with irresistible flavor.

Whether you're planning a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal prep. Best of all? It’s all cooked together in foil packets, making cleanup a breeze.

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🛒 Ingredients & Their Flavor Roles

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant and satisfying salmon dinner — and why each ingredient matters.

Ingredient Quantity Role in Recipe

Salmon Fillets 4 (6 oz each) The star of the dish – rich in omega-3s, naturally buttery and moist when baked in foil.

Asparagus (woody ends trimmed) 1 bunch A perfect pairing for salmon – tender, slightly earthy, and crisp when roasted.

Unsalted Butter 4 tablespoons The base for the sauce – adds richness and melds the flavors together beautifully.

Garlic (minced) 4 cloves Adds sharp, aromatic depth that balances the richness of the butter and salmon.

Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice 2 tablespoons Brightens and cuts through the richness, lifting every bite.

Lemon Zest 1 teaspoon Intensifies the citrus aroma without adding more acidity – a flavor amplifier.

Salt To taste Enhances all the flavors – don’t skip this!

Black Pepper To taste Adds a subtle bite to balance the sweetness of the butter and the acidity of the lemon.

Fresh Dill (optional garnish) As needed Adds a refreshing, herby finish that complements the lemon and salmon beautifully.

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Salmon

Follow these clear steps to create your foil-wrapped masterpiece.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate heat ensures the salmon cooks evenly without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare Your Foil Packets

Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet for easy transfer. You’ll build each portion in its own foil for even cooking and easy cleanup.

Step 3: Layer the Asparagus

Divide the trimmed asparagus spears among the foil sheets, arranging them in a single layer in the center. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This will be your flavor-packed sauce base.

Step 5: Add the Salmon

Place one salmon fillet on top of the asparagus in each foil packet. Brush each fillet with the remaining melted butter, then spoon the lemon garlic mixture evenly over the top. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Seal and Bake

Fold the foil tightly into a packet, sealing all edges. This locks in steam and flavor, keeping the salmon moist. Bake for 18–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Carefully open the foil packets (watch for steam!) and sprinkle with fresh dill. Serve directly in the foil or plate the salmon and asparagus beautifully.

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💡 Why This Recipe Works (and Why Everyone Loves It)

One-pan wonder – No extra pans, no mess.

Healthy but indulgent – Rich in nutrients but feels like a cheat meal.

Foolproof cooking method – Baking in foil means the salmon won’t dry out.

Customizable – Swap asparagus for green beans, add sliced lemon rounds, or toss in cherry tomatoes for color.

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👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Recipe Success

✅ Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.

✅ Don’t overbake. Salmon should flake easily but still look slightly translucent in the center when you remove it from the oven.

✅ Add lemon slices on top before sealing for extra lemony aroma.

✅ Let it rest for 2 minutes after baking – this finishes the cooking process and helps flavors settle.

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🥂 Serving Suggestions

Turn this dish into a full, satisfying meal with these pairings:

Garlic mashed potatoes or lemon couscous for a hearty side

Mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette

A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé

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⭐ Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Salmon Recipe That’s Simple Yet Sophisticated

This Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is more than just a healthy dinner — it’s a flavor celebration. The harmony of flaky salmon, bright lemon, and herbaceous garlic butter creates a meal that’s light, satisfying, and impressive enough for guests.

Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook seeking new favorites, or just someone who loves a great salmon dinner, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation. Easy to prep, even easier to clean up, and packed with flavor — what's not to love?

👉 Try it tonight and see why it’s one of the internet’s favorite salmon dinners. Your taste buds will thank you.

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