Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus (Quick & Healthy)

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The foil packets seal in moisture and flavor, ensuring perfectly tender salmon and crisp-tender asparagus every time. This one-pan dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep.

ingredients

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

salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on)
fresh asparagus spears
olive oil
lemon juice
garlic (minced)
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning or dried herbs
lemon slices
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
foil sheets

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Tear large sheets of foil and place one salmon fillet in the center of each.

Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and divide evenly among the foil sheets, placing next to or under the salmon.

Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salmon and asparagus.

Sprinkle garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over each piece.

Top each fillet with a couple of lemon slices.

Fold the foil over the salmon and asparagus to create a sealed packet.

Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.

Carefully open the packets to release steam and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Swap asparagus for green beans, zucchini, or broccoli.
Add a spoonful of pesto or a sprinkle of parmesan before sealing the foil.
Use lime and cilantro instead of lemon and parsley for a Mexican twist.
Add cherry tomatoes or red onion slices for extra flavor and color.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the salmon moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I cook this on the grill?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.

Do I need to flip the foil packets?
No, keep them sealed and upright during cooking.

Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, cod, halibut, or trout also work well.

Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
Yes, it’s both keto-friendly and low in carbs.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the packets a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I add potatoes or rice to the foil?
Potatoes take longer to cook, so it’s best to pre-cook them if adding. Rice is better cooked separately.

What herbs go well with salmon?
Dill, parsley, thyme, and basil are excellent choices.

Is it okay to use parchment paper instead of foil?
Yes, but ensure it’s tightly sealed and oven-safe.

Why is my asparagus mushy?
It may be overcooked—use thinner spears and check for doneness early.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy nights or a healthy meal prep option. The foil packet method locks in juices and flavor, giving you perfectly cooked salmon with minimal cleanup. Give this recipe a try for a wholesome meal that’s as delicious as it is simple.

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