Flavorful Baked Salmon in Foil Packs with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter

If you’re craving a healthy, flavorful, and easy dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Baked Salmon in Foil Packs with Asparagus is exactly what you need. Juicy salmon fillets are nestled beside tender asparagus spears, then drizzled with a vibrant garlic lemon butter sauce and baked to perfection—all wrapped up in a convenient foil pack.

Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro looking for new weeknight ideas, this recipe for baked salmon with asparagus is reliable, delicious, and loaded with nutrients. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and family-approved. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—just toss the foil when you’re done!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe

One-pan meals are already a win, but baking salmon and asparagus in foil takes things to the next level. Each foil pack seals in the flavors and moisture, essentially steaming the salmon while allowing it to soak up all the zesty, buttery goodness.

The result? Perfectly baked salmon and asparagus, tender and flaky, with no need to babysit the oven.

This recipe is ideal for meal prepping, elegant dinners, or simply making a healthy dish that doesn’t feel like a compromise. It also works for people following clean eating, Whole30, or keto diets.

Need more healthy, high-protein meals? You might also enjoy this flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or light, vibrant Cucumber Shrimp Salad.

What Makes This Salmon and Asparagus Recipe So Special?

The real game-changer here is the garlic lemon butter. It’s simple—just butter, lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic—but it transforms the dish into something you’d order at a restaurant. Baking the foil packets locks in all that buttery citrus flavor, creating juicy salmon with bright, bold taste in every bite.

Unlike other salmon recipes, this one bakes along with the asparagus so everything’s ready at once, cooked evenly and infused with the same seasoning.

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Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter

You only need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients to bring this dish to life:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

You can also add red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat.

For a cozy side dish, serve this meal with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs or Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese for a satisfying balance.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this salmon and asparagus in foil recipe, gather the following:

• Sheet pan
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush or spoon
• Tongs (optional)
• Oven

Looking for more efficient kitchen hacks? You’ll love the time-saving prep used in our Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls.

How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter

This simple preparation takes less than 10 minutes, and the oven does the rest.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large sheets of aluminum foil and set them aside.

2. Prepare the garlic lemon butter. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended.

3. Assemble the foil packs.
Place a few asparagus spears in the center of each foil sheet. Lay one salmon fillet on top of the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon or brush the garlic lemon butter generously over each fillet.

4. Seal the packets.
Fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus, sealing the edges to create a packet. Be sure it’s sealed well so the steam doesn’t escape while cooking.

5. Bake.
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. For medium doneness, the internal temperature should be 125°F (51°C).

6. Serve.
Carefully open each foil pack (watch out for hot steam!), garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon Asparagus Every Time

• Trim the asparagus evenly so it cooks uniformly.
• Do not overcook the salmon—it should flake easily but still be moist in the center.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
• Add extra butter if you want a richer, more indulgent sauce.

You can even cook these foil packs on the grill during summer—just place them over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.

Looking for more foil-friendly meals? Try the hearty and savory Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry, which also works well in wraps or bowls.

Recipe Variations and Add-ins

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

• Add cherry tomatoes to the foil packets for a pop of sweetness.
• Use broccoli or green beans instead of asparagus.
• Add a spoonful of pesto over the salmon before sealing the packet.
• Sprinkle feta or Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Want to go all out? Pair this dish with a side of Parmesan Polenta Rounds for a comforting dinner everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking is the biggest issue. Keep an eye on the oven and use a thermometer if possible.
• Using too much foil can prevent even cooking. You want a snug but not tight wrap.
• Not sealing the edges well can let steam escape and dry out the fish.

Also, avoid thin asparagus spears—they tend to overcook quickly. Look for medium or thick ones.

What to Serve with Baked Salmon and Asparagus

This meal stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like:

• Brown rice or quinoa
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Crusty artisan bread
• Cucumber Dill Salad for a refreshing bite
• Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl for a cozy finish

It also makes a great dinner with just a squeeze of lemon and a side of roasted carrots or a leafy green salad.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To store:
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture.

Avoid over-microwaving—it can dry out the salmon and make the asparagus mushy.

Leftover salmon flakes beautifully into salads or wraps. Try tossing it with cooked pasta, olive oil, and herbs for a quick next-day lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the foil packs up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is this baked salmon with asparagus keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and full of healthy fats and protein.

Can I grill these foil packets?
Yes, place them on a preheated grill and cook for 12–15 minutes over medium heat.

Can I use frozen salmon?
It’s best to thaw salmon completely before baking, but if you must use frozen, add 5–7 minutes to the cook time and check for doneness.

What’s the best kind of salmon to use?
Atlantic or sockeye fillets work great. Choose skin-on for extra moisture, though skinless works fine too.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Baked Salmon in Foil Packs with Asparagus and Garlic Lemon Butter is a weeknight hero and a healthy option that never sacrifices flavor. With vibrant lemon, fragrant garlic, and melt-in-your-mouth salmon, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.

Best of all, it’s simple enough for a beginner, fancy enough for company, and flexible enough to make your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, bookmark it for your weekly dinner rotation, and subscribe to the blog for more wholesome, no-fuss recipes like this one.

Looking for your next easy dinner idea? Check out our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken—sweet, spicy, and perfect with rice or noodles!

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