Imagine the moment you pull a steaming, aromatic parcel from the oven, the scent of lemon and garlic mingling in the air like they’re throwing a party just for you. The golden butter glistens, promising a luscious experience as you peel back the foil to reveal perfectly flaky salmon, all infused with those vibrant flavors. You can practically hear the salmon whispering, “Eat me, I’m delicious!”
Now picture this: your friends gather around the table, eyes wide with anticipation as you unveil your Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil masterpiece. The laughter flows as everyone takes their first bite, and you proudly bask in their admiration. This dish not only fills bellies but also warms hearts—ideal for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The flavor profile balances buttery richness with zesty brightness, pleasing any palate
- Its visual appeal makes it a stunning centerpiece on any plate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or salads!
I still remember the first time I served this dish at a dinner party—the room erupted in compliments, and my friends couldn’t get enough!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh fillets; wild-caught is best for flavor and texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for a rich taste; melting it enhances the overall flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; crush or mince them for the best results.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salmon; bottled juice won’t cut it here.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color; feel free to substitute with dill if desired.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Aluminum Foil: For wrapping the salmon; ensure it’s heavy-duty to prevent tearing while cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab your aluminum foil and cut out two large rectangles—enough to create a cozy little packet for each salmon fillet.
Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt your unsalted butter in the microwave until it’s fully liquid. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything’s well combined.
Assemble Your Salmon Packets: Lay one salmon fillet on each piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle half of that glorious butter mixture over each fillet generously—don’t be shy now!
Seal Those Foil Packets Tight!: Fold up the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet. Make sure there are no leaks because we want all that buttery goodness trapped inside.
Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Place your packets on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Proudly Serve Your Creation: Carefully open each packet (watch out for steam) and transfer the salmon onto serving plates. Garnish with additional parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Now take a moment to appreciate what you’ve just created: succulent Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil that’s bursting with flavor and begging to be devoured!
You Must Know
- Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with flavor
- The foil seals in moisture, creating tender salmon that’s bursting with taste
- This recipe requires minimal cleanup and is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, prepare the garlic butter mixture before placing it on the salmon and wrapping it in foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes for perfectly cooked fish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add your favorite herbs like dill or parsley. You can also toss in some seasonal veggies alongside the salmon for a complete meal, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, preserving its moist texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for a zesty punch that elevates flavor
- Avoid overcooking salmon; it should flake easily with a fork
- Consider serving with a side salad to balance richness
Sometimes, I serve this at family gatherings, and everyone asks for the recipe! It’s always heartwarming when my culinary efforts lead to such joy around the table.
FAQ
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Wild-caught salmon offers superior flavor and texture compared to farmed varieties.
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute trout or tilapia, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily with a fork.
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is a mouthwatering dish that combines the richness of butter and garlic with zesty lemon, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy-to-make recipe allows you to impress your guests with minimal effort. The foil wrapping ensures moist, flaky salmon while also making cleanup a breeze. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone’s palate.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave and mix in minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Cut two large rectangles of aluminum foil and place one salmon fillet on each.
- Drizzle half of the butter mixture over each fillet.
- Fold the foil around the salmon to create sealed packets.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully open packets and serve garnished with extra parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 99mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 109mg