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Easy Lemon Basil Salmon in Foil Packets: Best 20-Minute Dinner

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This Easy Lemon Basil Salmon in Foil Packets is the kind of recipe that will save your sanity on a busy weeknight. It is fast, foolproof, and produces the most tender, flavorful salmon you have ever made at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 large sheets aluminum foil (heavy-duty recommended)
  • Optional: asparagus spears, green beans, or cherry tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil.
  3. Tear off four large sheets of aluminum foil, each about 12-14 inches long. Place one salmon fillet in the center of each foil sheet. If adding veggies, place them next to the salmon.
  4. Spoon the lemon basil mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
  5. Bring the two long sides of the foil together over the salmon and fold down a few times to create a tight seal. Then fold the short ends up to completely enclose the fish, creating a steam pocket.
  6. Place the foil packets on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C).
  7. Carefully open one packet (beware of hot steam). Let salmon rest for a minute or two. Transfer salmon and veggies to a plate, spoon cooking juices over the top. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a lemon wedge if desired.

Notes

Don’t overcook the salmon; it continues to cook after removal. Ensure a tight seal on foil packets to prevent steam escape. Use room temperature salmon for even cooking. Don’t skip lemon zest for concentrated flavor. For a crispy top, open packets last 2-3 minutes and broil. Always thaw frozen salmon completely before cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil salmon, foil packet salmon, easy salmon recipe, 20-minute dinner, healthy salmon, gluten-free salmon, low-carb salmon

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/easy-lemon-basil-salmon-in-foil-packets-best-20-minute-dinner/