Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a quick and scrumptious meal that impresses every time, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Baked Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinner parties, offering a sweet and savory flavor explosion in every bite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
- The foil packet locks in moisture, making the salmon tender and juicy.
- A healthy dinner option packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Minimal cleanup thanks to the foil method.
- Impresses guests with its gourmet taste and presentation.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of salmon fillet
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with a large piece of foil, enough to fold over and seal the salmon.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Place the salmon fillet on the foil-lined baking sheet. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the salmon, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper. Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to completely enclose it.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Carefully open the foil, allowing the steam to escape, and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the salmon in the honey garlic sauce for up to 30 minutes before baking. (source)
- If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled works in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
- Ensure even cooking by selecting salmon fillets of uniform thickness.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Lemon Herb Salmon: Replace honey with olive oil and add rosemary and thyme for a herby twist.
- Asian-Inspired Salmon: Add a tablespoon of sesame oil and a teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
Serve this salmon with a side of steamed broccoli, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips
- Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. (source)
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. (source)
FAQ
- Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using. - What if I don’t have foil?
You can use parchment paper, but the cooking time may vary slightly. - How can I tell if the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).