Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is the epitome of a healthy yet flavorful meal. The salmon comes out perfectly cooked, juicy, and infused with the delicious garlic and lemon flavors, while the asparagus becomes tender with a slight crispness. Cooking everything in foil ensures the fish stays moist and the vegetables retain their natural sweetness. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that’s super easy to prepare, making it perfect for a low-maintenance but satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the foil packets:

   • Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil, enough to wrap the salmon and asparagus individually.

   • Place each salmon fillet in the center of a piece of foil. Arrange the trimmed asparagus around the salmon.

3. Season the salmon and asparagus:

   • Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon and asparagus.

   • Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried thyme (or fresh sprigs), salt, and pepper over the top. Add a few slices of lemon on top of the salmon and asparagus for a burst of citrus flavor.

4. Seal the foil packets:

   • Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and asparagus, creating a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to lock in the moisture while baking.

5. Bake:

   • Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender but still slightly crisp.

6. Serve:

   • Carefully open the foil packets (beware of hot steam) and transfer the salmon and asparagus to plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon slices, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the foil packets for extra color and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salmon or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy twist.

• Herb Blend: Use fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, or basil instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.

• Butter: For an extra rich flavor, place a small pat of butter on top of the salmon fillet before sealing the foil.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon and asparagus in a foil packet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even and consistent cooking.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, this recipe works well with other fish such as trout, cod, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes! This recipe can easily be adapted for the grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat, then cook the foil packets for 10-12 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Can I substitute asparagus with another vegetable?

Absolutely! You can swap asparagus with green beans, broccoli, or even sliced carrots depending on what you have on hand.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The fish should also be opaque in color.

Can I prepare the foil packets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the foil packets and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. This makes for an easy, quick meal when you’re ready to cook.

Can I add a sauce to this recipe?

Yes, you can drizzle a little hollandaise sauce or a lemon-dill sauce over the salmon before serving for extra flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Can I cook this in a baking dish instead of foil?

While cooking in foil helps retain moisture and flavor, you can cook the salmon and asparagus in a baking dish. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil and check for doneness around the same cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep! Make individual foil packets and store them in the fridge for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner during the week.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the fresh, crisp taste of asparagus, all cooked together in one easy-to-clean foil packet. This recipe is quick, healthy, and perfect for busy nights when you want something nutritious without spending too much time in the kitchen. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love!

---

Print