Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is the kind of dish that makes your mouth water just thinking about it. Imagine tender salmon fillets slathered in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, wrapped snugly in foil, and baked to perfection. The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in with hungry eyes and eager stomachs.
As you pull this delightful creation from the oven, you’ll feel like a culinary wizard. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual weekend gatherings, or even impressing that special someone on date night. The flavors burst with every bite, making it an unforgettable experience that you’ll want to recreate time and again. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight meals a breeze
- The bright citrusy flavor perfectly complements the rich salmon, creating a delicious balance
- Its stunning presentation will impress any guest at your table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion or side dish pairing
I remember the first time I made this recipe; my friends were amazed at how something so simple could taste so gourmet!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, vibrant salmon for the best flavor and texture; wild-caught is ideal if available.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enhance the richness of the sauce without adding extra salt.
- Fresh Garlic: Always opt for fresh cloves over pre-minced; nothing beats that robust aroma.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemons for a bright flavor; bottled juice just doesn’t compare.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness; it’s also a great garnish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste preferences.
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 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture we all crave.
Prepare the Foil Packets: Tear off two large pieces of aluminum foil. Lay them out flat on your counter or baking sheet; think of them as cozy beds for your salmon fillets.
Create the Lemon Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt your butter. Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will be heavenly!
Add Salmon to the Foil: Place each salmon fillet in the center of its foil piece. Drizzle generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture, making sure they’re completely coated—this is where the magic happens.
Seal the Packets Tight: Fold up the sides of each foil packet to seal them tightly. This keeps all those delicious juices inside while baking. It’s like wrapping up a gift that’s too tasty to share!
Bake and Enjoy!: Place your packets on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. When you open those packets, be ready for an aromatic explosion!
Now you have perfectly cooked Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil! Serve it with your favorite side dishes, like asparagus or rice pilaf, and watch everyone dig in with delight!
With each bite bursting with flavor and goodness, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made this sooner! Trust me; this recipe will become a staple in your household before you know it!
You Must Know
- This lemon garlic butter baked salmon in foil is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and minimal cleanup
- The aroma of garlic and lemon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner
- It’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the foil and season the salmon with lemon, garlic, and butter before sealing it tightly. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the salmon for other fish like trout or add vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini. Add herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its moisture without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your lemon garlic butter baked salmon turns out perfectly, use fresh ingredients whenever possible
- Overcooking can dry out the fish, so keep an eye on it while baking
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors significantly
The first time I made this dish, my friend thought I had ordered takeout! Their surprised face when I revealed it was homemade was priceless—and a solid reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
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 frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely before seasoning and wrapping in foil.
How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?
Salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Foil is a simple yet elegant dish that elevates any meal. Tender salmon fillets are enveloped in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce and baked to flaky perfection, creating an aromatic delight that will impress family and friends alike. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring a burst of flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil and lay them flat.
- In a bowl, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place each salmon fillet on the foil, drizzle with the lemon garlic butter mixture, and seal the packets tightly.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg