This Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil is a tasty and easy dish! It features tender salmon fillets smothered in rich garlic butter, cooked to perfection in a neat foil packet.
What I love most is how quick it is to whip up! Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a fancy meal with minimal cleanup. Plus, the smell of garlic will have everyone hungry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here, but if you can’t find it, try using trout or even tilapia. Both will work, but remember, cooking times might vary slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile that still keeps the salmon moist.
Garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon if you opt for the powdered version.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices brighten the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime is a good substitute. You can also use a splash of vinegar for a similar tang.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is lovely, but if you only have dried herbs, use 1 teaspoon. Dried dill can also be replaced with thyme; both add a nice herbal touch.
How Do You Bake Salmon Perfectly in Foil?
Baking salmon in foil helps lock in moisture and flavor. The key is to create a little steam pocket. To achieve this:
- Make sure to fold the edges tightly. This keeps moisture in and results in tender salmon.
- Preheat your oven well. A properly heated oven will cook the salmon evenly and quickly.
- Check the salmon at 15 minutes. It should flake easily with a fork when done. If needed, bake for another 3-5 minutes.
And don’t forget to let it rest for a minute before serving! It will finish cooking a bit and be perfectly juicy.
Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) salmon fillet, skin-on or skinless
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill sprigs (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure your salmon cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Tear off a large piece of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long. Place the salmon fillet in the center of the foil, ready for all those delicious toppings!
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic. This flavorful mixture will make the salmon so tasty!
4. Coat the Salmon:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously spread the garlic butter mixture all over the salmon, making sure to cover the top and sides well.
5. Season:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salmon. Don’t be shy—seasoning brings out all the flavors!
6. Add Lemon and Herbs:
Place thin lemon slices on top of the salmon and sprinkle your chopped parsley and dill over it. The herbs add such a fresh touch!
7. Wrap It Up:
Carefully fold the foil over the salmon and seal the edges tightly to create a packet. This will keep the moisture in while it cooks.
8. Bake:
Place your foil packet on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
9. Open the Foil:
After baking, take the packet out of the oven. Be careful when opening it, as hot steam will escape. If you’d like, spoon some of the tasty butter sauce over the salmon before serving.
10. Serve:
Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your flavorful garlic butter salmon right away.
This method assures you a moist, exquisitely flavored salmon every time. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw it is overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can substitute minced garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of the 4 cloves of fresh garlic for a similar flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in the microwave for a short time, or gently reheat it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve With Garlic Butter Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside pasta tossed in olive oil for a complete meal!
