Tender, flaky salmon and crisp asparagus baked in foil with a bright, buttery lemon-garlic sauce — an easy, healthy, restaurant-style dinner ready in 20 minutes.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
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4 salmon fillets (4–5 oz each)
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
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3 tbsp butter, melted (or olive oil)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of ½ lemon
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
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Lemon slices (for topping)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
2️⃣ Prepare Sauce
In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3️⃣ Assemble Packets
Place salmon fillets on foil. Arrange asparagus around them.
4️⃣ Season
Brush salmon and asparagus generously with sauce. Top with lemon slices.
5️⃣ Seal & Bake
Fold foil into packets and bake 15–18 minutes, until salmon flakes easily.
6️⃣ Broil (Optional)
Open foil and broil 2–3 minutes for golden edges.
7️⃣ Serve
Garnish with herbs and serve immediately.
🌟 Why This Works
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Salmon: Rich in omega-3s, protein, and vitamin D
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Asparagus: High in fiber, folate, antioxidants
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Lemon & Garlic: Boost flavor and digestion
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Foil Baking: Locks in moisture, no mess
💡 Tips & Variations
✔ Swap butter for olive oil or ghee
✔ Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices
✔ Use lime + cilantro for a fresh twist
✔ Try Dijon mustard in the sauce for depth
❓Q & A
Q: How do I know salmon is done?
When it flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C) internally.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes — thaw fully and pat dry before baking.
Q: Can I grill this instead?
Absolutely — grill foil packets over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes — store in fridge up to 3 days.
Q: What if I don’t have asparagus?
Use green beans, broccoli florets, or bell peppers.
🔢 Nutrition (Per Serving – approx)
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Calories: ~320
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 20g
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Carbs: 5g
🟢 WW (Weight Watchers) Points
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With butter: 6–7 points
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With olive oil spray: 4–5 points