Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy, this Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is your new go-to weeknight dinner. It’s a wholesome, fuss-free meal that looks fancy enough to impress but takes just minutes to prep. Wrapped in foil and baked to tender perfection, the salmon steams with garlic, lemon, and butter for maximum flavor—while the asparagus soaks up all that deliciousness too!

This one-pan wonder is ideal for anyone seeking a light, nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, cleanup is a breeze thanks to the foil packet method. If you’ve loved our Honey Garlic Baked Cod, think of this as its lemony, buttery cousin—with a spicy twist from Sriracha. Let’s turn your kitchen into a five-star seafood bistro with this easy yet elegant recipe!

What is Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?

Baked Salmon in Foil is a clever way to lock in flavor and moisture while keeping everything clean and simple. The foil acts like a mini steam oven, cooking the salmon and asparagus together in their own buttery, garlicky juices. The sauce—made with lemon juice, broth, garlic, and a hit of hot sauce—adds zingy brightness and subtle heat that takes this dish from basic to brilliant.

And don’t worry if it sounds fancy—this is one of those recipes that proves big flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list. As they say, “The way to someone’s heart is through salmon wrapped in garlic butter and lemon.” Let’s unwrap some flavor!

Why You’ll Love This:

Here’s why this salmon recipe is about to be your weeknight hero:

• Quick and effortless: With just 10 minutes of prep and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute dinners.

• Flavor-packed and healthy: Salmon and asparagus make a lean, protein-rich combo, while the lemon garlic butter keeps it indulgent and satisfying.

• Fully customizable: Adjust the spice, swap in different herbs, or use your favorite seasonal veggies—this recipe is super adaptable.

If you’re a fan of our Garlic Butter Shrimp or Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken, this one brings the same fresh, bold flavors—with half the mess!

How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil

Quick Overview

This dish is as easy as seasoning, assembling, and baking. The foil packets make for a hands-off cooking method that seals in all the flavor, so you’ll never end up with dry salmon. You’ll bake them at a high temp for a short time—perfect for keeping everything tender and juicy.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 lb (450g) asparagus, woody ends trimmed

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Sriracha)

• 4 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3–4 tablespoons butter, diced into small cubes (or use ghee)

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or cilantro

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat and prep:
   Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Cut two large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (14×12 inches). Lay them flat on your counter.

2. Mix the garlic butter sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce.

3. Assemble the foil packets:
   Place a salmon fillet in the center of each foil sheet. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper. Arrange trimmed asparagus alongside the salmon on each foil sheet.

4. Add garlic and sauce:
   Sprinkle minced garlic over the salmon and asparagus. Spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over both packets.

5. Add butter and seal:
   Dot each salmon and asparagus bundle with the diced butter. Fold the foil over the salmon and crimp the edges to seal tightly—leave a little room inside for heat circulation.

6. Bake:
   Transfer the packets to a baking sheet. Bake sealed-side-up for 9–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork.

7. Serve and garnish:
   Carefully open the foil packets (watch for steam!) and drizzle with extra lemon juice. Top with chopped parsley or cilantro and add a lemon slice for extra brightness.

What to Serve Baked Salmon in Foil With:

This flavorful meal stands on its own, but if you want to build it out, try these pairings:

• Steamed jasmine or wild rice to soak up the buttery lemon sauce

• A light cucumber or mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls to keep it cozy and satisfying

• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with citrus

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend date night at home!

Top Tips for Perfecting This Recipe:

• Use heavy-duty foil: This ensures your packets don’t tear or leak during baking.

• Don’t overbake: Salmon cooks quickly. Check for doneness around 9 minutes—especially with thinner fillets.

• Customize your veggies: Try swapping asparagus for green beans, zucchini ribbons, or thinly sliced bell peppers.

• Go dairy-free: Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter if you’re avoiding dairy.

• Make it ahead: Assemble foil packets a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when ready!

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon and asparagus in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently: Warm in the oven at 300°F or in a covered skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out the fish.

• Freeze? Best to enjoy this fresh, but if needed, freeze cooled leftovers for up to 2 months and reheat gently in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes—thaw it completely before assembling the foil packets for even cooking.

What’s the best substitute for asparagus?
Green beans, broccoli florets, or baby spinach work beautifully in foil packets.

Is the hot sauce necessary?
Not at all! Feel free to skip it or adjust to your taste. You can also use mild chili flakes or a dash of paprika for warmth without heat.

Can I grill instead of bake?
Absolutely! Place the foil packets on a preheated grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus & Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is the weeknight dinner upgrade you didn’t know you needed. It’s fast, flavorful, and filled with fresh, healthy ingredients. From the zesty garlic lemon sauce to the tender salmon and perfectly cooked asparagus, this recipe makes clean eating something to actually get excited about. Wrap it, bake it, and enjoy a foil-packed punch of flavor!