Introduction
Baked Salmon in Foil is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal. This recipe features tender, flaky salmon infused with the rich flavors of lemon, butter, honey, and fresh herbs. Cooking the salmon in foil helps retain moisture, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for guests, this baked salmon recipe is a fantastic choice!
Why Make This Recipe
Baking salmon in foil is a foolproof method that locks in all the natural juices and flavors. This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Plus, cleanup is minimal since everything is cooked in one convenient foil packet!
How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil
This dish involves layering fresh lemon slices on a foil-lined baking sheet, seasoning the salmon, drizzling it with a flavorful butter sauce, and baking it to perfection. The result is a tender, flaky salmon infused with zesty citrus and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 2 lemons, thinly sliced
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 3 lb.)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 tbsp. butter, melted
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. chopped thyme leaves
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Base: Lay lemon slices in an even layer in the center of the foil.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then place it on top of the lemon slices.
- Make the Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano.
- Coat the Salmon: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
- Wrap and Bake: Fold up the sides of the foil around the salmon to create a packet, sealing it tightly. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: Switch the oven to broil and broil for 2 minutes, or until the butter mixture slightly thickens and caramelizes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Salmon in Foil
This baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with roasted vegetables, garlic butter asparagus, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You can also pair it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for an elegant touch.
How to Store Baked Salmon
- Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in a 275°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals to prevent overcooking.
Tips to Make Baked Salmon in Foil
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the salmon; it should be just cooked through and flaky.
- Add extra herbs and spices like paprika or dill for additional flavor.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different touch of sweetness.
- If you prefer crispy edges, leave the foil slightly open during the last few minutes of baking.
Variation
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for heat.
- Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon: Increase the garlic amount and add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Mix fresh dill, parsley, and basil for a robust herbaceous crust.
- Asian-Inspired: Substitute honey with soy sauce and add ginger for an Asian-style salmon.
FAQs
1. How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
2. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon and butter mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake when ready.
Baked Salmon in Foil is a flavorful and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!
Baked Salmon in Foil
Ingredients
- 2 lemons, thinly sliced
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 3 lb.)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 tbsp. butter, melted
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. chopped thyme leaves
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Lay lemon slices in an even layer in the center of the foil.
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then place it on top of the lemon slices.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
- Fold up the sides of the foil around the salmon to create a packet, sealing it tightly. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Switch the oven to broil and broil for 2 minutes, or until the butter mixture slightly thickens and caramelizes.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Use fresh salmon for the best flavor. For a crispy top, leave the foil slightly open during the last few minutes of baking.
