Introduction:
Baked salmon in foil is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious, healthy meal. The foil method helps retain the fish’s moisture and flavor, making it incredibly tender. You can customize the seasoning and add various veggies to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh herbs of your choice (such as rosemary, parsley, or dill)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)
Vegetables (optional: cherry tomatoes, zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the foil: Tear off a large piece of aluminum foil. Place it on a baking sheet.
Season the salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and thyme (or your choice of herbs). Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
Add vegetables (optional): If you’re adding vegetables, arrange them around the salmon on the foil. You can drizzle them with a little olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.
Wrap the salmon: Fold the foil over the salmon, sealing it to create a packet. Ensure the foil is tightly sealed to keep all the moisture inside.
Bake: Place the foil packet on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Finish and serve: Open the foil carefully (watch out for steam), and if desired, add a small pat of butter on top of the salmon for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Description:
This Baked Salmon in Foil is not only easy to make but also a healthier option for dinner. The foil locks in moisture, ensuring the fish stays juicy and flavorful. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and lemon elevates the taste, while the optional addition of vegetables makes this a complete, well-balanced meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple dinner party!
Tips:
Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so be sure to check for doneness around 12 minutes. The salmon should flake easily when tested with a fork.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil can make a huge difference in flavor.
Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other seasonings, such as paprika, cumin, or a touch of honey for a sweet-savory flavor.
Customize the foil packet: You can add vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or even baby potatoes to the packet for a complete one-pan meal.
Variations:
Asian-Inspired Salmon: Swap the garlic and thyme for soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Cajun Salmon: Season the salmon with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
Mediterranean Salmon: Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese on top of the salmon for a Mediterranean twist.
Lemon-Dill Salmon: Increase the lemon and add fresh dill to the seasoning for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Corrections:
If you find that the salmon is not cooking through, check the thickness of the fillets and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make sure to seal the foil properly to avoid any juices from escaping, ensuring the salmon stays moist.
Enjoy!:
Once your salmon is perfectly baked, enjoy it with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This dish will be a hit for anyone who loves seafood!