Irresistible Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil

The aroma of lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil fills the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a seaside restaurant with waves crashing nearby. Picture that juicy, flaky salmon, kissed by fresh lemon juice and fragrant garlic, all wrapped up like a delightful present waiting to be unwrapped.

Every bite bursts with flavor, making this dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for friends. Trust me; it will leave your taste buds dancing like they just won the lottery!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of preparation allows even the busiest home cooks to shine in the kitchen
  • The vibrant flavors make it suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings
  • Its visual appeal, wrapped in shiny foil, adds a touch of sophistication to your table
  • You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or sides for added versatility

I remember the first time I prepared lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil for my family; their delighted faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, skinless fillets for a buttery texture and rich flavor.
  • Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves and mince them for a robust aroma that elevates the dish.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
  • Fresh Herbs: Choose parsley or dill; they enhance flavor without overpowering the salmon’s natural essence.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together; don’t skimp on these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps develop those delightful flavors.

Prepare the Foil Packets: Tear off large sheets of aluminum foil—enough to create a sealed packet around each salmon fillet. This is where the magic happens!

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Place one salmon fillet on each sheet of foil. Generously sprinkle minced garlic, drizzle fresh lemon juice, and add pats of butter on top.

Season Generously: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salmon. Feel free to go heavy-handed here; we want every bite bursting with flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs: Toss some freshly chopped herbs over the top. Parsley or dill works wonders here! It’s like giving your salmon a spa day.

Seal the Packets and Bake: Fold the foil over to create tight packets around each fillet. Place them on a baking tray and bake for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil ready to impress everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every flavorful bite while basking in compliments from your guests. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

You Must Know

  • Lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil is a breeze to prepare
  • The foil locks in moisture and flavor, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience
  • A burst of citrus and garlic makes it irresistible
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, prepare your marinade and wrap the salmon tightly in foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

 

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the lemon for lime or add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor kick. You can also toss in seasonal veggies alongside the salmon for a complete meal.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, keeping it covered with foil.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect salmon, choose fillets with skin on; they tend to retain moisture better while cooking
  • Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking, which can dry out your fish
  • Letting it rest after baking enhances flavor and texture significantly

Sometimes I prepare this dish when I need a quick dinner that still feels fancy. My friends always rave about how delicious it is, and I smile because it’s so simple!

 

FAQ

How long should I bake lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil?

Bake the salmon at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

What sides pair well with lemon garlic butter baked salmon?

Serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

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Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil is a quick and elegant dish that brings the freshness of the sea right to your dinner table. This simple recipe features succulent salmon fillets enveloped in a flavorful mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, creating a delightful culinary experience. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Tear off four large sheets of aluminum foil.
  3. Place one salmon fillet on each sheet of foil.
  4. Top each fillet with minced garlic, lemon juice, and pieces of butter.
  5. Season generously with salt and pepper; add fresh herbs.
  6. Fold the foil over to create tight packets and place them on a baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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