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Easy Lemon Garlic Salmon in Foil Packets

lemon garlic salmon in foil packets - featured image

Perfectly cooked, flaky salmon infused with bright citrus and savory garlic, all cooked in a foil packet for easy cleanup. This foolproof recipe is ready in under 25 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: asparagus spears, green beans, or zucchini slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take salmon fillets out of the fridge and let them sit on the counter for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and half of the chopped dill. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash together with a fork until well combined.
  3. Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 by 18 inches. Place one salmon fillet in the center of each sheet, skin-side down if skin is on. Pat fillets dry with a paper towel.
  4. Season the top of each fillet generously with salt and pepper. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the garlic-herb butter over each fillet. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over each piece.
  5. If adding vegetables, arrange them around the salmon on the foil. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  6. Bring the two long sides of the foil together over the salmon and fold down a few times to seal. Fold up the short ends, crimping tightly. Leave a little air space inside for steam circulation.
  7. Place foil packets on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. For a 1-inch thick fillet, 13 minutes is usually perfect. Internal temperature should reach 125°F to 130°F.
  8. Carefully open one end of a foil packet to let steam escape. Slide salmon onto a plate. Spoon buttery juices over the top. Sprinkle with remaining fresh dill and a final squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fillets of similar thickness. If adding vegetables, don’t overstuff packets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches 125°F-130°F internally. Let rest 1-2 minutes after opening packet. Can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon garlic salmon, foil packet salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick dinner, weeknight dinner, low carb, keto