Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus (Quick & Healthy)

🐟 Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus (Quick & Healthy)

Mediterranean-Style One-Pan Dinner

🌿 Description

This Mediterranean baked salmon in foil is light, flavorful, and effortlessly healthy. Fresh salmon and crisp asparagus are wrapped in foil with extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, then baked until tender and juicy. The foil locks in moisture, making this a perfect 15–20 minute meal with minimal cleanup—ideal for busy days or clean eating.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 salmon fillets (120–150 g / 4–5 oz each)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (sliced + juice)
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
½ tsp paprika (optional)
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Kalamata olives or capers

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.
Prepare Foil Packets
Lay out 4 large pieces of foil. Place asparagus in the center of each and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Add Salmon
Place a salmon fillet on top of the asparagus. Sprinkle with garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Finish & Seal
Drizzle remaining olive oil and lemon juice over salmon. Top with lemon slices.
Fold foil tightly to seal the packets.
Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
Carefully open foil packets (watch the steam). Garnish with fresh herbs and olives if desired.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or Mediterranean chickpea salad
Add a spoon of Greek yogurt–lemon sauce
Enjoy with a side of whole-grain pita

❓ Q & A

Q: Is this recipe Mediterranean diet–friendly?
A: Yes! It includes fatty fish, olive oil, vegetables, herbs, and lemon—key Mediterranean staples.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the foil packets up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate until baking.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 63°C / 145°F.

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Q: Can I cook this on the grill?
A: Absolutely! Grill foil packets over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.