Baked Salmon in Foil with Lemon and Dill produces perfect, flakey, delicious salmon every time - without a mess! Simple and tasty, making it a go-to for those busy weeknights or special occasions.
There’s something so satisfying about making a dish wrapped in its own little packet. This is the perfect dish if you’re looking for something spring-ish. Light enough that it’s not overwhelming, and just as easy to pair with a simple green salad or a side of roasted or mashed potatoes if you’re after something a bit heartier. I love this simple dish so much!
In This Post
Why This Recipe Works
Easy, baked salmon recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, or when you want to impress. It is one of my favorite dinner recipes for good reason. Here's why I love it:
- Delicious, fresh flavors. This easy, baked salmon recipe works because it uses simple ingredients like fresh lemons, dill, and olive oil to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon. The lemon and dill not only infuse the salmon with fresh flavors but also add a vibrant aroma that makes this dish seriously good.
- Easy cleanup. Cooking salmon in a foil packet creates a steamy environment that keeps the fish tender and moist. The foil packet also makes cleanup a breeze!
- Healthy dinner. We all know by now that salmon is good for us. I love that this is a healthy meal that I can pull off on a weeknight. And it goes great with these delicious air fryer fingerling potatoes or this potato nibbles recipe.
- Easy. There really isn't much prep here - it's an easy meal that comes together quickly.
Key Ingredients
This recipe uses minimal ingredients to create a delicious meal. Here's what you'll need.
- Large salmon fillet. The star of the dish is rich in fatty acids and a source of high-quality protein. Try to opt for wild-caught salmon over farm-raised if possible.
- Olive oil. Adds moisture and helps the delicious seasoning stick to the salmon.
- Fresh lemons. The acidity and freshness cut through the richness of the salmon, adding a bit of balance.
- Fresh dill. Gives the salmon a citrusy, earthy fresh taste that I absolutely love.
- Garlic. You guys know I love garlic! A bit of minced garlic offers a sharp, savory depth that complements the fish perfectly. (Garlic not pictured in above ingredients shot.)
How To Make Baked Salmon In Foil With Lemon And Dill
- Prep. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and lining a baking sheet or large baking dish with aluminum foil. Lightly spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray.
- Season the salmon. Lay the large salmon filet in the center of the foil. Rub the top of the salmon with olive oil, and season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Add lemons and garlic. Sprinkle chopped garlic over the seasoned fillet. Drizzle fresh lemon juice and arrange thin, fresh lemon slices on top of the fish.
- Seal the foil. Bring the edges of the tin foil together and seal them to form a packet around the salmon, allowing space for air to circulate.
- Bake. Place the baking tray in the oven and let the salmon cook for about 20-25 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon. You'll know your salmon is ready when the thickest part of the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F and the tender salmon flakes easily when pressed with a fork.
- Serve. Carefully open the foil packet (watch that steam - it will be hot!). Transfer the lemon dill salmon to a serving dish and garnish with more fresh dill. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
Variations And Substitutions
Want to change it up a bit? Here are some ideas.
- Fresh herbs. Swap dill for parsley or cilantro for a different taste.
- Citrus. Replace lemon with lime for a different flavor.
- Sub out the olive oil. Avocado oil can be a great substitute for olive oil for its milder taste and high smoke point. You can also use melted butter.
- Add a bit of spice. Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who favor a spicy kick.
Hints And Tricks
- Don’t overcook. Salmon is best enjoyed when it's cooked just right. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Room temperature. Let your salmon sit out for a few minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
- Check doneness. Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily at the thickest part of the fillet.
- Serve immediately. For the best texture and flavor, serve the salmon as soon as it's cooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
Salmon is easy to overcook so you'll need to watch it carefully. The bake time can vary depending on the thickness of the fillet. You can use a thermometer to monitor the internal temperature - you'll want the thickest part of the salmon to reach 145 degrees F. I think one of the easiest ways to tell when salmon is done is to press it with a fork - if it flakes easily, you're likely good.
Sure! I used one whole salmon fillet, but if you prefer to cut the salmon into individual portions (or if that's how you bought it at the grocery store), you can create individual foil packets too vs. one large one.
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. (Read my post on how long salmon keeps in the fridge here.)
What To Serve With Baked Salmon
There are loads of sides that go with this easy salmon recipe. I love serving it with a simple salad and some crusty bread for a delicious dinner. Here are a few ideas:
- Simple Salad
- Asparagus
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Potato Salad (This Olivier potato salad is a fabulous choice!)
- Garlic Green Beans
- Mashed Potatoes
- Rosemary Parmesan Bread
- Roasted Cauliflower
If you try this Baked Salmon In Foil With Lemon And Dill, let me know what you think in the comments below. And don't forget to tag me @frontrangefed on Instagram so I can see your masterpiece!
More Easy Salmon Recipes
- Easy Smoked Salmon Sushi Bowls
- Easy Lemon Salmon Pasta
- Waffle Breakfast Sandwich With Smoked Salmon And Scrambled Eggs
- Easy Salmon BLT Sandwiches
- Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese And Everything Bagel Breakfast Pizza
- Easy Smoked Salmon Toasts With Creamy Avocado
Recipe
Baked Salmon In Foil With Lemon And Dill
Ingredients
- 1-1.25 lbs salmon filet (skin on or off, whichever you prefer)
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 small lemons
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
- 3 cloves garlic
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a large piece of foil with cooking spray and lay it on a large sheet pan.
- Slice 1 ½ of the lemons into thin slices. Juice the remaining lemon half.
- Rub the oil over the top of the salmon filet and sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Place the salmon onto the foil, then sprinkle the chopped garlic cloves over the top of the fish. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top of the salmon, then add the sliced lemons to the top.
- Close the salmon packet by twisting the ends of the foil, then seal the top to form a secure packet (don’t wrap the foil too tightly - leave some room for the air to circulate while baking.
- Cook the salmon for about 20 minutes. (Note - the cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon filet. Watch it closely to ensure you don’t overcook it - once it starts flaking, it’s ready!)
- Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully open the foil. Transfer the filet to a serving dish, then sprinkle the fresh dill over the top of the salmon. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Don’t overcook. Depending on the size of your fillet, you may need slightly more or less cooking time. Watch it carefully and don't let it overcook. When it easily flakes, it's done.
- Room temperature. I like to let the salmon sit on the countertop for about 20-30 minutes before baking.
- Check doneness. Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily at the thickest part of the fillet.
- Serve immediately. Don't wait to serve this baby! For the best texture and flavor, serve the salmon as soon as it's cooked.
George says
Yum... So good and great, light dish for spring. Love the beast cleanup too!