These Easy Garlic Butter Salmon Foil Packets are a total delight! Packed with flaky salmon, zesty garlic, and rich butter, they cook quickly and taste amazing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how simple they are to make. Just throw everything in a foil packet and let the oven do its thing. Cleanup is a breeze too! Who doesn’t enjoy fewer dishes, right? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish because they remain tender and flaky. If you can’t find salmon, try trout or any firm white fish like cod or halibut. Canned salmon can also work in a pinch, though the texture will differ.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Both will still provide that lovely richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but you can use jarred minced garlic if you’re short on time. Garlic powder is also an alternative, though you’ll want to use about a half teaspoon for the same taste.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness, but you can swap it with dill or basil if that’s what you have on hand. Dried herbs work too; just remember they’re more potent, so use less—about a third of what you’d use fresh.
How Do You Seal The Foil Packets Properly?
Sealing your foil packets is important to keep the salmon moist and prevent steam from escaping. Here’s how to do it right:
- After placing the salmon and other ingredients in the center, fold the long sides of the foil over the salmon, bringing them together at the top.
- Fold the ends of the foil inward in a way that creates a tight seal. Ensure there are no gaps so the steam can build up and cook the fish evenly.
- Keep the packet loose, allowing some space inside for steam. This helps with the cooking process!
With these tips and techniques, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal! 🐟
Easy Garlic Butter Salmon Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed if preferred
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried thyme
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced plus extra wedges for serving
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes for baking in the oven. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks perfectly!
2. Prepare the Foil:
Lay out a large piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet—this makes it easier to transfer to the oven later on. Make sure the foil is big enough to hold the salmon and all the other goodies.
3. Place the Salmon:
Put your salmon fillets right in the center of the foil. Make sure they have some space around them for the seasoning and lemon!
4. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the delicious flavor comes from!
5. Spoon the Mixture:
Carefully spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, ensuring each piece gets a good coating of that tasty goodness.
6. Add Lemon Slices:
Arrange some lemon slices around and on top of the salmon. These will add a lovely zing to the dish!
7. Seal the Foil Packets:
Now, fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, sealing the packet shut. Make sure it’s snug to trap all the steam inside while it cooks.
8. Bake the Salmon:
Place the foil packet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Cook until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Open with Care:
Once done, carefully open the foil packets to avoid getting burned by the steam. Have a plate ready!
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salmon with the lemon slices right on top, and drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce from the foil over the fish. For extra flavor, garnish with more parsley and some lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delightful, flavorful garlic butter salmon!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Salmon Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If you’re using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Both options will still give you a delicious and rich flavor!
How Do I Know When the Salmon is Done Cooking?
The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a food thermometer, it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! These foil packets can be cooked on the grill as well. Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the packets for about 10-15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through. Just make sure to place them on indirect heat to avoid overcooking!
