Here’s a perfect, healthy one-pan meal: Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce. It’s light, flavorful, and so easy to clean up. The foil locks in moisture, creating tender salmon and perfectly cooked asparagus with a zesty, buttery finish.
🐟 Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
🕒 Ready in: 25–30 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 2 (easily doubled)
🧄 Ingredients:
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2 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each, skin on or off)
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1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra wedges for serving)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
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1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
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Cut two large sheets of foil (about 12–14 inches each).
2. Prepare the Foil Packets:
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Divide asparagus evenly between the two foil sheets, laying it in the center.
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Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt & pepper.
3. Add Salmon:
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Place a salmon fillet on top of each asparagus bed.
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Season salmon with salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using).
4. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
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In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and juice from ½ lemon.
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Pour sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.
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Top with 2–3 lemon slices per fillet.
5. Seal and Bake:
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Fold foil over the salmon and crimp the edges to seal into a packet (don’t wrap too tightly).
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Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness.
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For a slightly golden top, open the foil and broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve:
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Carefully open the foil (watch for steam), transfer to plates, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Use parchment inside the foil for easier cleanup and non-reactive cooking.
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Add cherry tomatoes or sliced zucchini for extra vegetables.
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If your asparagus is thick, blanch for 1–2 minutes before baking so it cooks evenly.
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Serve with rice, couscous, or garlic mashed potatoes.