Baked Salmon in Foil

Baking salmon in foil is a fantastic method for creating a moist, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. This recipe combines fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic to enhance the natural taste of the salmon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy salmon foil recipe will become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Foil Packets:

• Cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long.
• Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.

3. Season the Salmon:

• Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Spread minced garlic evenly over the salmon fillets.
• Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
• Sprinkle the fresh dill and parsley over the salmon.
• If using, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the fillets and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

4. Seal the Foil Packets:

• Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, covering completely and sealing the packets closed.
• Place the foil packets on a baking sheet.

5. Bake the Salmon:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

6. Serve:

• Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for the hot steam) and transfer the salmon fillets to plates.
• Drizzle any remaining juices from the foil packets over the salmon.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Salmon in Foil

1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for bright, firm salmon with no fishy odor. Wild-caught salmon typically has better flavor and texture than farm-raised.
2. Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.
3. Add Vegetables: You can add thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the foil packets for a complete meal.
4. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Basil, rosemary, and thyme are excellent options.
5. Grill Option: This recipe can also be adapted for the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the foil packets for about 10-15 minutes.

This easy baked salmon in foil recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. It’s a great way to enjoy salmon with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Enjoy!