Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus because it’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The foil packet keeps everything moist and flavorful, allowing the salmon and asparagus to cook together, soaking up all the seasonings. The salmon comes out flaky and perfectly cooked, and the asparagus is tender yet still has a little bite to it. The best part is that the cleanup is a breeze just toss the foil away! It’s a perfect combination of simplicity, health, and taste.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 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 to 400°F (200°C). Tear off 4 large sheets of aluminum foil, enough to wrap each salmon fillet and asparagus individually.

2. Place one salmon fillet in the center of each sheet of foil. Arrange a handful of trimmed asparagus next to the salmon.

3. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and asparagus. Sprinkle with minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Lay a couple of lemon slices on top of each fillet.

4. Fold the sides of the foil up around the salmon and asparagus, then seal the edges to create a packet.

5. Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Once done, carefully open the foil packets (be cautious of the steam) and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and healthy dinner option perfect for busy evenings.

Variations

• Add Veggies: I love adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the foil packet for a more complete meal.

• Spicy Kick: If I like a bit of heat, I sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a little sriracha over the salmon before sealing the foil.

• Herb Variations: If I prefer different herbs, I can easily switch the thyme and oregano for rosemary, dill, or parsley, which all pair wonderfully with salmon.

• Citrus Twist: I sometimes swap the lemon slices for orange or lime slices for a fresh citrus twist.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I recommend gently warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if in a hurry, but the oven method preserves the texture of the salmon and asparagus better.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, I can use frozen salmon fillets, but I need to thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking. If I don’t have time to thaw, I can bake the frozen salmon for a few extra minutes, though the texture may not be as tender.

Can I cook this without foil?

Yes, I can cook the salmon and asparagus directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, though the foil packet method helps trap moisture and flavor, making the salmon extra juicy. If not using foil, I might want to cover the fish with foil during the first part of cooking to prevent it from drying out.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). I check the thickest part of the fillet to make sure it’s cooked through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This recipe is best fresh, but I can prepare the foil packets ahead of time, seal them, and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day. When ready to cook, just pop them in the oven!

Can I substitute the asparagus with other vegetables?

Yes! I sometimes use green beans, broccoli, or carrots in place of asparagus. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable’s thickness.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful dish that I can make in no time. The foil packet method makes cleanup a breeze, while locking in all the delicious flavors from the lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s a healthy, quick dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. The salmon turns out moist and tender, while the asparagus is perfectly roasted, making it a wonderfully balanced meal. Whether I’m craving something light or looking to impress guests, this recipe always delivers!

Print