Grilled salmon recipe in foil: the lazy chef’s dream

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our grilled salmon recipe in foil, a culinary masterpiece that combines tender, juicy salmon with a symphony of aromatic herbs and seasonings. This simple yet sophisticated dish is perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to festive gatherings.

Preparing the Salmon

1. Select the right salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon fillets with vibrant orange flesh and no fishy odor.
2. Trim and season: Remove any visible bones and pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Creating the Herb Butter

1. Soften the butter: Allow unsalted butter to soften at room temperature until spreadable.
2. Mix in herbs and seasonings: In a small bowl, combine softened butter with chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, and thyme), lemon zest, garlic, and any other desired seasonings. Mix until well blended.

Assembling the Foil Packets

1. Lay out the foil: Cut two large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place one sheet on a flat surface.
2. Place the salmon: Position the seasoned salmon fillet in the center of the foil.
3. Spread the herb butter: Generously spread the herb butter mixture over the salmon, ensuring even coverage.
4. Seal the packets: Fold the foil over the salmon, sealing the edges tightly to create an airtight packet. Repeat the process with the second sheet of foil.

Grilling the Salmon

1. Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
2. Place the packets on the grill: Carefully place the foil packets on the grill grate.
3. Grill for 10-12 minutes: Grill the packets for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Unwrapping and Serving

1. Unwrap the packets: Use tongs to carefully open the foil packets, taking care not to spill any juices.
2. Transfer to a serving dish: Transfer the grilled salmon to a serving dish and discard the foil.
3. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Accompanying Sides

• Lemon-Herb Roasted Potatoes
• Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan
• Quinoa Salad with Feta and Pomegranate
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Variations

• Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the herb butter mixture for a fiery kick.
• Honey-Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with honey before grilling for a sweet and sticky glaze.
• Lemon-Dill Salmon: Use lemon juice and fresh dill instead of other herbs for a refreshing twist.

Health Benefits of Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon is an excellent source of:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Essential for heart and brain health
• Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair
• Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immunity
• Selenium: A powerful antioxidant

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the best way to grill salmon in foil?
A: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the salmon packets for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
A: The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the foil packets up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and grill them just before serving.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled salmon?
A: Lemon-herb roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus with Parmesan, quinoa salad with feta and pomegranate, and roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are all excellent side dishes for grilled salmon.
Q: How do I store leftover grilled salmon?
A: Leftover grilled salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.