If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as delicious as it is effortless, this baked parmesan garlic herb salmon in foil recipe needs to be on your menu tonight. I tried it the other evening, and it turned out so tender and flavorful, I couldn’t wait to share it with you!

The foil technique locks in moisture and ensures the salmon stays perfectly flaky. What’s more, this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple sides, like Southern fried cabbage recipe, making it versatile for family dinners or entertaining. Here’s how you can make it too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients to create incredible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon (1 ½ pounds)
Choose fresh king salmon, or your favorite variety. It works with filets or whole cuts. Tip: look for bright, smooth flesh when buying salmon.
Butter (4 tablespoons)
Softened, but not melted. This creates a creamy base for the garlic herb topping.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)
Adds zesty brightness that perfectly complements the salmon.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
Helps to lock in the moisture while also blending the flavors.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Use freshly minced garlic for the most robust flavor.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and has unbeatable flavor.
Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon)
A fragrant mix of herbs to elevate the dish.
Salt (½ teaspoon) and Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
Season to taste for that perfect balance.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
A pop of vibrant color and freshness to garnish your salmon.

Note: This ingredient list serves four to six people. Adjust quantities based on the number of servings.

Creative Ingredient Variations

For those who want to switch it up or accommodate dietary needs, this recipe is easily adaptable:

Dairy-Free Option
Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the parmesan cheese.
Low-Sodium Version
Use unsalted butter and reduce the amount of added salt.
Extra Flavor
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Herb Substitutions
Swap parsley for basil, dill, or chives to experiment with different herb profiles.

For a complete meal, pair this salmon with oven-baked chicken and rice or a light side salad.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of how quickly you can prepare and cook this salmon:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

It’s a time-efficient recipe that’s ready in under half an hour!

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this baked salmon recipe, gather these tools:

Baking Sheet
Provides stability for the foil-wrapped salmon.
Kitchen Foil
Essential for wrapping the fish and locking in flavors.
Small Mixing Bowl
Ideal for combining the garlic herb butter.
Spatula or Spoon
Helps spread the butter mixture evenly over the salmon.

How to Make Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil

Making this salmon is straightforward and stress-free. Even if you’re new to cooking seafood, you’ll love how simple this recipe is!

Step 1: Prepare the Foil and Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut a sheet of foil large enough to wrap around your salmon. Lay the foil on your baking sheet, ready to cradle your savory masterpiece.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Herb Butter

Combine softened butter, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, and set it aside.

Step 3: Prep the Salmon

Place your salmon skin-side down on the foil. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Then, spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the top of the fish, ensuring the entire surface is coated.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

Wrap the foil loosely around the salmon, leaving the top exposed. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For extra crispiness, broil the top for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and savor the incredible flavor!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, these tips will ensure your baked salmon turns out perfect every time:

Don’t Skip the Broil
Broiling adds a slight crunch that enhances the dish’s texture.
Watch the Cook Time
Overcooking salmon can make it dry. Keep an eye on it, especially in the last few minutes.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, herbs, and parmesan make all the difference in taste.
Foil Alternatives
If you prefer not to use foil, bake the salmon in a parchment paper packet instead.

How to Serve Baked Parmesan Garlic Herb Salmon in Foil

Not only is this salmon easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile in how you can serve it:

Classic Pairings
Pair it with roasted vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.
On a Bed of Grains
Serve over lemon rice or quinoa for an added layer of flavor.
Party-Style Presentation
Slice the salmon into portions and arrange it on a platter with lemon wedges for a stunning centerpiece.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this recipe per serving:

Calories: 222
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fat: 13g

This dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying!

How to Store Leftovers

Any leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store
Place the leftover salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze
Wrap the salmon in foil or freezer-safe wrap, and it’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheat
For best results, reheat in an oven at 300°F or in an air fryer for a few minutes.

You can also check out this baked honey mustard chicken recipe for more ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this salmon recipe irresistible? Here’s why I think you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy
Perfect for busy nights, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Mess-Free
Cooking in foil means minimal cleanup.
Customizable
Adjust seasonings and ingredients to fit your preferences.
Healthy and Nutritious
Packed with protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Impressively Delicious
Restaurant-quality flavor made at home.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish?

Certainly! This recipe also works well with cod, tilapia, or trout. Adjust the cook time based on the thickness of the fish.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 135°F.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Absolutely. Place the foil packet on a preheated grill and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes.

Ben Carraoli