Are you tired of dry, bland salmon that leaves you disappointed? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this mind-blowing Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil Paper recipe that will make your taste buds dance! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's so easy, even novice cooks can impress their family and friends. The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet incredibly flavorful garlic butter sauce and the foolproof foil packet cooking method that guarantees juicy, tender salmon every single time.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil, approximately 12x16 inches each. These will be used to create individual packets for the salmon.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Remove the garlic butter from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley.
- Place each salmon fillet in the center of a foil sheet. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish.
- Arrange lemon slices on top and around the salmon fillets.
- Carefully fold and seal the foil packets, creating a tight but loose tent to allow steam circulation.
- Transfer the foil packets to a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully open the foil packets, being cautious of the hot steam. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately, spooning any remaining garlic butter from the packet over the salmon.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with a vibrant color and firm texture.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature - 145°F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked salmon.
- Don't overcook! Salmon continues to cook slightly after removing from the oven, so take it out when it's just barely opaque.
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the garlic butter mixture.
- If you prefer a slightly crispy top, open the foil packet in the last 2 minutes of cooking and broil briefly.
- Pair this salmon with light sides like roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 587kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 173mg
