Baked salmon in foil is a tasty and easy dish! The salmon stays moist and flavorful, wrapped up with your favorite seasonings and veggies. It’s like a little present of deliciousness!
I love making this when I want a quick healthy meal. Just toss it in the oven and let it do its thing while I relax. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here. If you can’t find it, try another fish like trout or tilapia. Canned salmon is also an option, but it won’t quite give the same effect as fresh fillets.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor. You can use melted butter or avocado oil as a substitute if you prefer. Coconut oil could also work, but it will add a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re short on fresh, use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder instead. I love using roasted garlic for a sweet, mellow taste!
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices brighten up the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime works well too. For a milder option, lemon juice could be used, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are great for brightness and depth. If fresh isn’t available, substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. I often skip dill since it’s not everyone’s favorite, and it’s still delicious!
How Do I Make the Perfect Foil Packet for Baking?
Creating a good foil packet is key to ensuring your salmon cooks evenly and stays moist. Start with a big enough piece of foil so the salmon has room; around 18 inches is a good length.
- Place the salmon in the center, leaving enough space around the edges.
- Drizzle the oil and add your seasonings. Adding lemon slices on top keeps the fish moist as it bakes.
- Fold the sides of the foil up and over the salmon, sealing it tightly at the top. If there are any holes, it could let steam escape.
Remember, when you’re ready to open the packet, do it carefully! The steam can be hot, so allow it to escape before reaching in. Enjoy your perfectly baked salmon!
How to Make Baked Salmon in Foil?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh salmon fillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 30-35 minutes for this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your salmon to cook perfectly!
2. Prepare the Foil:
Grab a large piece of aluminum foil—make sure it’s big enough to wrap the salmon completely. Place this foil on a baking sheet to make it easier to handle later.
3. Add the Salmon:
Now, place your salmon fillet right in the center of the foil. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, and then sprinkle the minced garlic on top. It’s going to add such great flavor!
4. Layer with Lemon:
Take the thin lemon slices and lay them evenly over the salmon. The lemon will give your fish a nice, fresh taste as it bakes.
5. Season the Salmon:
Time to spice things up! Sprinkle the chopped parsley, dill (if you’re using it), oregano, salt, and pepper over the salmon. This is where all the fantastic flavors come together!
6. Fold the Foil:
Carefully fold the sides of the foil over the salmon and seal it tightly. You want to create a closed packet. This will keep all the delicious juices inside while the salmon cooks.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Place your foil packet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, carefully open the foil packet (watch out for hot steam!). Transfer the salmon to a serving dish. If you’d like, garnish with some additional fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious baked salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. For quick thawing, place the salmon in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before continuing with the recipe to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use melted butter or avocado oil as alternatives. Both will add a delicious flavor and help keep the salmon moist during baking.
How to Store Leftover Baked Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Foil Packet?
Absolutely! Feel free to add thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the foil packet for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut evenly to ensure they cook through along with the salmon.
