Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is like a culinary hug, wrapping you in flavors that sing with joy. Imagine biting into tender salmon, drizzled with zesty lemon and rich garlic butter, all while the aroma wafts through your kitchen like an invitation to dine. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners when you want something delicious without a fuss. The moment you pull it from the oven, your family will gather around, eager to enjoy this vibrant meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish a weeknight winner
- Bursting with citrusy flavors and buttery goodness, it’s irresistible
- Visually stunning with its bright colors, it elevates any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions
Sharing this Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil recipe always brings smiles and compliments from friends and family alike.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright-colored fillets; they should smell like the ocean, not fishy.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they add a robust flavor that dried garlic simply can’t match.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning in this dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salmon; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning helps enhance all the natural flavors of the salmon.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures even cooking without drying out our lovely salmon fillets.
Prepare Your Foil Packets: Cut large pieces of aluminum foil to create individual packets. This step keeps everything contained and makes cleanup a breeze.
Create the Flavor Base: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic and lemon juice. The aroma should hit you like a fragrant wave of deliciousness.
Assemble the Salmon Packets: Place salmon fillets on the foil, drizzle with the garlic butter mixture, sprinkle salt and pepper, then fold up the sides of the foil to seal everything inside.
Bake to Perfection: Place your foil packets on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and smells heavenly.
Add Fresh Parsley Before Serving: Once baked, carefully open each packet—watch out for steam! Sprinkle fresh parsley over each fillet for that final touch of freshness before serving.
Enjoy this Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables or fluffy rice—and relish every bite!
You Must Know
- The Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is a game-changer for busy weeknights
- The aromatic blend of lemon and garlic transforms simple salmon into a gourmet experience
- Plus, cleanup is a breeze with foil preparation, making it perfect for any home cook
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare the foil packets while the oven warms up. Place seasoned salmon on foil, add lemon slices and garlic, then seal tightly before baking for about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the salmon for trout or even chicken! Spice things up with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or add veggies like asparagus to your foil packet for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place salmon in a covered dish in a 300°F oven until warmed through, preserving its juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use fresh ingredients to enhance flavor
- Avoid overcooking!
- Salmon should flake easily but remain moist
- Experiment with different citrus fruits to brighten your dish and keep things exciting
Cooking this dish always brings back memories of family dinners where everyone raved about the flavors and how easy it was to prepare. Those moments remind me that good food creates lasting bonds.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
What sides pair well with baked salmon?
Serve with rice or steamed vegetables for a delightful and balanced meal.
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and flavor. Tender salmon fillets are enveloped in a zesty lemon and rich garlic butter sauce, creating an irresistible meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This recipe offers a hassle-free cooking experience with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to choice for any home cook. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and aromas while sharing this culinary gem with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut large pieces of aluminum foil for individual packets.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Place salmon fillets on the foil, drizzle with the garlic butter mixture, season with salt and pepper, then fold to seal.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily.
- Carefully open packets, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg