Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

If you love a dinner that feels effortlessly elegant yet bursting with vibrant freshness, then this Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It combines tender, flaky salmon with crisp-tender asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes, all infused with bright lemon and garlic flavors, then cooked perfectly in foil to lock in moisture and amplify the taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight treat or impressing guests, this recipe brings simplicity and sophistication together in one delicious package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation for this flavorful dish. Each item plays a crucial role, from the fresh veggies that add color and crunch to the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic that give the salmon its signature bright flavor.

• 4 salmon fillets (about 1 to 1.5 lb / 450 to 700 g): Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for extra flavor and moisture retention during baking.
• 1 lb / 450 g asparagus: Trimmed, these bring a lovely grassy crunch and vibrant green to the foil packets.
• 1 1/2 cups / 225 g / 8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they burst with flavor as they roast alongside the salmon.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Deliver a gentle kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 4 tbsp olive oil: Rich and fruity, it helps keep the salmon moist and blends all the ingredients beautifully.
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Provides bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the fish.
• 1 tsp lemon zest: Intensifies lemon flavor without extra juice, giving fragrant citrus oils.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Lends an aromatic punch that complements both the salmon and vegetables.
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley: Added at the end for a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green color.

How to Make Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Foil and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, enough to create individual packets for each salmon fillet. Rinse and pat dry the salmon, then trim the asparagus and halve the cherry tomatoes. Having everything prepped helps the cooking process flow smoothly and evenly.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture not only seasons the salmon but also infuses the asparagus and tomatoes with a bright, garlicky essence that ties every bite together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

Place each salmon fillet in the center of a foil sheet. Arrange the asparagus and cherry tomatoes evenly around each fillet to ensure a balanced roast. Spoon the lemon-garlic marinade generously over the salmon and vegetables, making sure everything is well coated. Folding the foil carefully seals in all the flavors and creates the perfect steam environment.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon and Vegetables

Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes. The cooking time depends on the thickness of your fillets; the salmon should be opaque and tender, while the asparagus remains crisp-tender and the tomatoes slightly blistered. The foil traps the moisture, so you end up with juicy salmon and perfectly cooked greens.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Once out of the oven, carefully open each foil packet (watch out for hot steam) and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top. This simple addition brightens the presentation and adds a delicate herbal note that elevates the dish to a new level of freshness.

How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Garnishes

To make your meal look even more inviting, consider adding lemon wedges alongside your foil packets for an extra zesty squeeze. A sprinkle of more fresh parsley or a few capers can also bring bursts of flavor and texture that complement the lemony salmon beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish stands on its own as a complete meal, but if you’d like to bulk it up, serve it with a fluffy quinoa salad or herbed rice pilaf to soak up any leftover juices. Simple garlic mashed potatoes or a crunchy green salad also pair wonderfully and keep the meal balanced and colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic yet elegant presentation, serve the salmon directly in its foil packet, letting guests open the parcels at the table for that “wow” moment. Alternatively, gently plate the salmon next to the roasted asparagus and cherry tomatoes, drizzling any remaining cooking juices over before serving for glistening, restaurant-worthy appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salmon and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the foil packets intact or transfer contents to a shallow dish to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

This Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked salmon without vegetables for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place the salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to preserve moisture and avoid drying out the fish. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture of the salmon and vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before assembling the foil packets for even cooking and the best texture.

What if I don’t have asparagus? Can I substitute other vegetables?

Absolutely! Green beans, broccoli florets, or even thinly sliced zucchini work nicely as substitutes. Just keep the vegetable size consistent to ensure even cooking with the salmon.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! The individual foil packets make portion control easy, and the dish stores well for a couple of days, making it a great option for healthy lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Can I add herbs other than parsley?

Yes, fresh dill, thyme, or basil would be lovely choices to complement the salmon’s flavor. Add these herbs after baking to maintain their vibrant taste.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh turns an opaque pink. The recommended baking time typically ensures this, but thicker fillets might need a minute or two longer.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Salmon in Foil with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special yet is incredibly simple to prepare. The way the flavors meld together through baking in foil creates a juicy, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll love how easy it is to have a healthy, gourmet dinner ready in under 30 minutes!

Print