Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish. If you’re pescatarian or just want variety, consider using trout, which has a similar flavor. For a cheaper option, canned salmon works too, just adjust cooking times.

Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a light, crunchy topping. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work but may not be as crispy. You could also try crushed crackers or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option with a cheesy taste.

Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme bring brightness and depth. You can use dried herbs if needed—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less. Feel free to add your favorite herbs like dill or basil!

How Do I Make Sure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking salmon just right can be a challenge. You want it to be flaky but not dry. Here’s how to achieve that:

• Preheat your oven properly; 375°F is ideal.
• Watch the time! Cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
• Check for doneness by using a fork. It should flake easily and have a slightly opaque center.

Using aluminum foil traps steam, which keeps the salmon moist and tender. Enjoy your meal with all those great flavors locked in!

Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Other:

• Aluminum foil
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepping the Oven and Foil:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, cut four large sheets of aluminum foil. These will wrap around each salmon fillet, so make sure they’re big enough to encase the fish.

2. Mixing the Topping:

In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir until everything is evenly mixed together.

3. Adding Butter and Lemon:

Next, pour in the melted butter and lemon juice. Stir the mixture again until the breadcrumbs are nicely coated and the texture is crumbly. This will give your salmon a tasty topping.

4. Assembling the Salmon:

Place each salmon fillet in the center of a foil sheet. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each fillet, pressing down gently so it sticks. This adds lots of flavor to the salmon!

5. Wrapping It Up:

Now, fold the foil over the salmon to make a sealed packet. This locks in the steam, keeping your fish moist and flavorful while it cooks.

6. Baking the Salmon:

Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork—just be careful not to overcook it!

7. Serving:

Once baked, carefully open the packets (watch out for the hot steam!). Serve the salmon on plates, and add lemon wedges on the side if you’d like a fresh squeeze of lemon. Enjoy this tasty meal!

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before use. You can thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight or for a quicker method, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before adding the breadcrumb mixture to ensure it sticks well.

What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s recommended to reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature, wrapping it in foil to keep it moist, or in the microwave on a lower power setting.

Can I Add Vegetables to the Foil Packets?

Yes, definitely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers alongside the salmon. Simply place them on the foil sheet before adding the salmon, drizzling a bit of olive oil and seasoning them lightly for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re adding dense vegetables like carrots or potatoes, which may need a bit longer to cook through.