This Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon is a tasty treat that’s super easy to make. Wrapped in foil, the fish stays juicy and flavorful with a mouthwatering mix of garlic, herbs, and cheesy goodness.
Cooking it in foil means fewer dishes to wash—yay! I love pairing it with simple veggies for a full meal. It’s like a little package of happiness served right on your plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here! If you prefer, you can swap for trout or another white fish. Each type of fish has a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds richness, you can use avocado oil or melted butter as alternatives. They give a similar texture and flavor while having their own unique taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for this recipe, but if you don’t have it, bottled lemon juice or even lime juice can work in a pinch. Just adjust to your taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful savory touch. You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both give a similar salty depth!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really packs a punch, but garlic powder can also be used if you’re in a hurry. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove.
How Can I Make Sure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon in foil keeps it moist and tender. To ensure it’s done just right, follow these simple tips:
- Preheat your oven properly to maintain consistent temperature.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time! At 12-15 minutes, salmon should flake easily with a fork but not be dry.
- For extra flavor and color, you can broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes after wrapping to get a little browning.
Lastly, let it rest for a minute after you take it out of the oven. This helps retain the juices and gives you a moist, flavorful meal.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in no time, you’ll have a tasty and healthy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure your salmon gets cooked perfectly! While it’s heating, you can prepare the rest of your ingredients.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil. Make sure they are big enough to wrap each salmon fillet completely. This will create little packets that keep the flavors in and the salmon moist.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s combined. This tasty mixture is what will flavor your salmon!
4. Assemble the Salmon Packets:
Place each salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil. Then, spoon the Parmesan garlic mixture generously over each salmon fillet, spreading it evenly to cover the fish.
5. Seal the Foil Packets:
Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to cover it completely. Make sure to crimp the edges tightly so the packets are sealed well. This helps trap all the delicious juices inside while baking!
6. Bake the Salmon:
Place the sealed foil packets on a baking sheet. Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
7. Check and Broil (Optional):
Once the time is up, carefully open the foil packets (be careful of the hot steam!). Check to make sure the salmon is fully cooked. If you want a little browning on top, you can broil the salmon for an extra 1-2 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s ready, garnish your salmon with fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve on a plate and enjoy this delicious Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also place the sealed salmon in cold water for about an hour to expedite thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Lemon Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice on hand, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. You can also substitute with a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste!
How to Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it in short intervals until heated through to preserve moisture and flavor.
Can I Use Different Herbs or Cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with herbs. Fresh dill or parsley would make a lovely addition. As for cheese, feta works well for a tangy twist, or you could even try a sprinkle of mozzarella for a gooey texture. Adjust based on your taste preference!
