There’s nothing quite like the smell of baked salmon wafting through the kitchen, is there? Whenever I make my Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil, I can’t help but feel a little giddy. This recipe not only makes my kitchen smell amazing, but it also reminds me of summer dinners spent on the patio with family and friends. We’d gather around the grill, enjoying the evening sun while sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. And the best part? This baked version is just as delicious and significantly less messy than grilling!
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is while still being loaded with flavor. The combination of honey, garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes the salmon sing. Plus, cooking it in foil means you have minimal cleanup! Now, let’s dive into the delicious details!
What’s in Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil?
Salmon Fillets: The star of the show! I use skin-on, wild-caught salmon fillets (roughly 6 oz each), as they not only taste better but are also healthier. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap them out for trout or cod!
Honey: This sweet nectar brings a delightful glaze to the salmon. I prefer using raw honey for its pure flavor and health benefits.
Soy Sauce: A staple in many kitchens, it adds a savory umami kick. You can opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake!
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that makes the dish irresistible. You can never go wrong with garlic in my book!
Dijon Mustard: Just a tablespoon adds a tangy complexity to the sauce that balances out the sweetness of the honey beautifully.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle helps to keep the salmon moist and complements the other flavors seamlessly.
Ground Black Pepper: For a touch of spice, this ingredient is subtle but does wonders in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Nothing brightens a dish like lemon! The zest adds a fragrant twist while the juice lends acidity, bringing all the flavors together.
Fresh Parsley and Lemon Slices: Garnishing with fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish but also lends a pop of color. And who doesn’t love a fresh squeeze of lemon right before digging in?
Aluminum Foil: While it might not be an ingredient you eat, it’s essential for creating that steamy packet that cooks the salmon to perfection!
Is Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with health benefits.
Salmon: It’s rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health. Plus, it’s a great source of high-quality protein and a range of vitamins.
Honey: While it sweetens the dish naturally, it also has antioxidants and can help soothe a sore throat or cough — not bad for a dinner!
Garlic: This little powerhouse is known for its immune-boosting properties and benefits for heart health.
Overall, this dish is not just delicious; it’s a wholesome choice for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon slices (for garnish)
– Aluminum foil
This recipe serves four, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering.
How to Make Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil?
1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the foil**: Cut a large piece of aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
3. **Make the honey garlic sauce**: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. **Place the salmon**: Set the salmon fillets in the center of the foil. If you’d like, season them lightly with salt and pepper.
5. **Add the sauce**: Pour the honey garlic mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, ensuring they’re well-coated.
6. **Wrap the salmon**: Fold the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to let the salmon cook in its own steam.
7. **Bake**: Place the foil packet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. **Garnish and serve**: Carefully unfold the foil packet (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Garnishing Goodness and Variations
If you want to switch things up, you can add vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers into the foil packet alongside the salmon. They’ll soak up all those delicious juices and make for a colorful dish! You can also experiment with herbs—try adding thyme or dill for a different flavor profile.
Whether you serve it with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies, this Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil is bound to impress.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try! There’s something truly magical about pulling this steaming foil packet from the oven and revealing a beautifully glazed salmon. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one! And feel free to share your experience or any adjustments you made; I love hearing how you all get creative in the kitchen! Happy cooking!
