There is something incredibly satisfying about fresh, flaky fish infused with bright and zesty flavors. The Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe is an absolute showstopper that not only brings exquisite taste to your table but also makes cleanup a breeze. Baking the salmon in foil locks in all those luscious juices, ensuring every bite is tender and bursting with the refreshing tang of lemon and aromatic basil. If you’re craving a dish that feels fancy yet comes together in a snap, this recipe is your new best friend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each one is essential, playing a special role in creating that perfect balance of buttery richness, citrus brightness, and herbal freshness that sets this salmon apart.
- 1 ¼ pounds salmon (skin on, cut into 5 fillets): Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- 5 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Adds a silky richness that perfectly complements the lemon and garlic.
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced): Provides a subtle savory punch without overpowering the delicate fish.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil: Infuses a fresh, slightly sweet herbal note that brightens the dish.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (divided): Brings that essential citrus zing to brighten the entire flavor profile.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth and spice.
- 5 lemon slices: Not only pretty for presentation but also intensifies the lemon aroma as it cooks.
How to Make Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating the oven to 375℉. This temperature is just right to gently cook the salmon through while ensuring that it stays moist and tender inside its foil cocoon.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon-Basil Butter Sauce
Whisk together melted butter, finely minced garlic, fresh basil, half of the lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the recipe, infusing the salmon with layers of flavor as it bakes.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packet
Lay a large sheet of aluminum foil on a baking sheet, then place a slightly smaller piece of parchment paper on top. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup even easier. Arrange the salmon fillets carefully on the parchment, spacing them slightly apart so each piece gets coated evenly.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Lemon Slices
Pour half of your lemon-basil sauce over the salmon fillets, letting the buttery mixture coat each one thoroughly. Then, top every fillet with a fresh lemon slice — they’ll bake down to soft perfection and elevate the citrus notes beautifully.
Step 5: Seal and Bake the Salmon
Fold the parchment and foil tightly around the salmon to create a sealed packet. This traps all the moisture and flavors for a perfectly steamed result. Bake the packet in your preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, allowing the fish to cook evenly without opening the foil.
Step 6: Broil for a Beautiful Finish
Carefully open the foil packet and pour the remaining lemon-basil sauce over the salmon for an extra burst of flavor. Place the salmon back in the oven under a high broil for 5 to 7 minutes, watching closely as it browns lightly and develops an irresistible golden edge. Be sure to fold or tear down any parchment sticking up to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Once you see that slight caramelization, remove the salmon from the oven and serve right away. A drizzle of fresh lemon juice and some additional chopped basil make perfect finishing touches that bring this dish to life.
How to Serve Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe
Garnishes
To keep things vibrant and fresh, sprinkle extra chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving. Adding an extra squeeze of lemon juice can never go wrong either—it brightens every forkful and ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This lemon baked salmon is incredibly versatile. Pair it with lightly steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a fluffy rice pilaf, or a simple quinoa salad for a wholesome, balanced meal that’s equally impressive and nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the salmon directly in its foil packet on a large platter to wow your guests, letting the fragrant steam escape tableside. Alternatively, plate the fillets on a bed of lemony couscous or a colorful garden salad for a fresh, elegant presentation that’s full of textures and colors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the cooled salmon to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon, but because this recipe features delicate butter and fresh herbs, wrap leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Use within one month for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out the fish, warm it gently in the oven at 275℉ wrapped in foil or place it in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel. This helps keep the salmon moist and tender as if freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before preparing the recipe to get the best texture and allow the flavors to absorb properly.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper along with the foil?
While not mandatory, parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier without interfering with the steaming effect of the foil packet.
Can I substitute fresh herbs in the lemon-basil sauce?
Yes, fresh dill, thyme, or parsley work wonderfully if you want to switch up the flavor profile while keeping the dish bright and fresh.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of about 145℉. The foil packet method ensures even cooking, but keep an eye during broiling to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of the oven?
Definitely! Use the same foil packet technique and place it on a medium-heat grill, cooking for about 12-15 minutes, then broil or move to direct heat briefly to brown the top.
Final Thoughts
There’s simply no better way to enjoy salmon than with the fresh, vibrant flavors in this Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe. Quick to make and bursting with brightness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for weeknights and special occasions alike. So grab some fresh salmon, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a dish that tastes like sunshine on a plate!
Print
Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Baked Salmon in Foil recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare tender salmon fillets infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and basil. Baked in a foil packet, the salmon stays moist and juicy, then finishes under the broiler to achieve a golden, slightly charred top. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, this dish pairs well with your favorite sides and is sure to impress with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 1 ¼ pounds salmon (skin on, cut into 5 fillets)
- 5 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (divided)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 5 lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 375℉ (190℃) to prepare it for baking the salmon.
- Prepare the lemon-basil sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, finely minced garlic, fresh chopped basil, half of the lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the salmon on foil: Lay a large sheet of aluminum foil on a baking sheet, then layer a slightly smaller piece of parchment paper on top. Arrange the salmon fillets on the parchment with slight gaps between them to allow even cooking.
- Add sauce and lemon slices: Pour half of the lemon-basil sauce evenly over the salmon fillets. Reserve the other half of the sauce for later. Place one lemon slice on top of each fillet for added flavor.
- Create the foil packet and bake: Fold the parchment and foil tightly around the salmon to seal the packet. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, keeping the packet closed to lock in moisture.
- Broil with remaining sauce: Carefully open the foil packet, pour the remaining lemon-basil sauce over the salmon, and fold or tear any parchment paper away from the top to prevent burning. Place the salmon under the oven’s high broil setting for 5 to 7 minutes to brown and caramelize the top.
- Serve immediately: Watch closely so the salmon doesn’t burn. Once the top is slightly browned, remove from the oven and serve right away. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh lemon juice and basil for extra brightness.
Notes
- Using foil and parchment paper makes cleanup easy and helps keep the fish moist.
- Do not open the foil packet during initial baking to retain moisture.
- Watch carefully during broiling to avoid burning the herbs or paper.
- Fresh basil and lemon juice can be adjusted to taste for more vibrant flavor.
- Salmon fillets should ideally be similar in size for even cooking.
