Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil Recipe

Introduction

When you’re in the mood for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is simple, Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the aromatic flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in foil to lock in moisture and flavor. The result is a succulent, tender piece of salmon that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Foil: Cut four large pieces of foil, each large enough to wrap around a salmon fillet. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Top the Salmon: Spoon the garlic herb butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat the top of the fillets.
2. Seal the Packets: Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, covering it completely and sealing the edges to create a packet.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

1. Place on a Baking Sheet: Arrange the foil packets on a baking sheet.
2. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve the Salmon

1. Open the Foil Packets: Carefully open the foil packets, allowing the steam to escape.
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salmon to serving plates and garnish with fresh lemon slices, additional chopped herbs, and cracked black pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the salmon with a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a complete meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the salmon.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Salmon

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its superior taste and texture.
• Even Cooking: Make sure the salmon fillets are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

Flavor Enhancements

• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra clove or two for a more intense garlic flavor.

Avoid Overcooking

• Check for Doneness: Be careful not to overcook the salmon. It should be just cooked through, with a moist and flaky texture.

Variations to Try

Spicy Version

• Add Heat: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic herb butter mixture before spreading it over the salmon.

Creamy Parmesan

• Add Cream: For a creamier version, mix a tablespoon of heavy cream or mayonnaise into the garlic herb butter mixture before adding it to the salmon.

Citrus Infusion

• Extra Lemon: For a more pronounced citrus flavor, add extra lemon juice or even some orange zest to the garlic herb butter mixture.

Conclusion

Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and aromatic topping that perfectly complements the natural flavors of the salmon. Wrapped in foil, the salmon stays moist and tender, making it an effortless yet impressive meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe to ensure even cooking.

What Herbs Work Best with Salmon?

Parsley, thyme, rosemary, and dill are all excellent choices that pair well with salmon. You can mix and match according to your preference.

How Long Should I Marinate the Salmon?

This recipe doesn’t require marinating, but if you’d like to marinate the salmon for extra flavor, 15-30 minutes in the garlic herb butter mixture will suffice.

Can I Cook This on the Grill?

Yes, you can grill the foil packets over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets.

What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

If you prefer, you can substitute Parmesan with Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Yield: 4

Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil Recipe

Print

When you’re in the mood for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is simple, Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the aromatic flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in foil to lock in moisture and flavor. The result is a succulent, tender piece of salmon that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon slices (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil, making sure there is enough extra foil on the sides to fold over and seal the salmon fillets.
   
2. Prepare the Garlic Herb Mixture:
   In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
   
3. Assemble the Salmon in Foil:
   Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the garlic herb mixture evenly over each fillet, spreading it out to cover the top of the salmon.
   Fold the sides of the aluminum foil over the salmon, covering it completely and sealing the packet by folding the edges together.
   
4. Bake the Salmon:
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The salmon should be opaque and easily flaked with a fork.
   
5. Serve:
   Carefully open the foil packets to release the steam. Transfer the salmon to plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Thicker fillets may need an additional 5 minutes.

Foil Packet: Sealing the salmon in foil helps retain moisture and infuses the fish with the garlic herb flavors.

Cheese Substitution: For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute the Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.