Salmon Foil Packets
Salmon has long been a favorite food of both nutritionists and home chefs. Not only is it packed with omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients, but its unique flavor and juicy texture make it an ideal ingredient for a variety of delicious recipes. One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy salmon is to make salmon foil packets. This simple and effortless recipe delivers a savory and sweet meal that the entire family will enjoy.
Ingredients
At its core, salmon foil packets is an incredibly easy dish to make. The basic ingredients are few and simple, including the salmon itself, of course, as well as a few standard seasonings. To make one serving of delicious salmon foil packets, one needs:
- One 4-ounce skinless salmon fillet
- One tablespoon olive oil
- One teaspoon of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- One tablespoon of butter
- One teaspoon of lemon juice
- One tablespoon of minced garlic
- Two tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs (such as dill, parsley or chives)
- One tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
- Three slices of lemon
Instructions
Once all the ingredients are gathered, one can begin to prepare the salmon foil packets. The cook begins by preheating their oven to 400 degrees. Next, they will prepare the salmon by patting it dry with a paper towel, then seasoning it with sea salt and pepper, and the olive oil and garlic. The salmon packet should be placed in the middle of a double-layer of foil and folded, ensuring that the edges are securely sealed.
Next, the cook should place the butter, lemon slices, and herbs sliced over the salmon. After that, the Parmesan should be sprinkled over the fish, and the entire packet should be securely sealed.
Once the packet is sealed, it can be placed on a baking sheet and baked in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The packet should be left unopened until it has finished baking, at which time the cook can carefully open the foil and enjoy the delicious meal contained within.
Optional and Variations
One of the beauties of salmon foil packets is the flexibility of the recipe. The ingredients can easily be tweaked to match a cook’s personal tastes and preferences, or to keep things interesting by adding a little extra flavor.
For example, a cook can substitute the butter for other types of healthy fat, such as coconut oil or clarified butter, and they can switch up the herbs they use to add different flavor profiles. If the cook prefers a heartier meal, they could also add fresh vegetables such as potatoes or onion to the inside of the packet before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Salmon foil packets can be served as a main course along with a side of vegetables or a salad. It is also delicious on top of a bed of quinoa or wild rice. Additionally, this would make a great appetizer for a dinner party, as the packets can be cooked ahead of time and simply reheated before serving.
Health Benefits of Eating Salmon Foil Packets
Not only are salmon foil packets incredibly delicious, but they are also incredibly good for you. As mentioned, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, and it is also rich in B vitamins, which are essential for a healthy heart. In addition, this dish is high in protein, low in calorie, and low in carbs, making it an ideal choice for those following a healthy diet.
Salmon foil packets deliver a delicious and easy meal that can please just about anyone. Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it is also nutritious and packed with flavor. Plus, the cook can easily change the recipe up to suit different tastes and preferences, making it even more versatile. So, the next time the chef is looking for a tasty, simple, nutritious meal idea, salmon foil packets are a sure bet.
