These Easy Salmon Foil Packs are a tasty treat! They mix sweet pineapple with juicy salmon and rich garlic butter for a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
Cooking in foil is a breeze! Just toss everything together, fold it up, and let the oven do its magic. Plus, clean-up is as simple as it gets—win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here, bringing flavor and healthy fats. If you can’t find salmon, feel free to use other fish like trout or tilapia. Chicken breast could also work if you prefer.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and acidity. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple will do—just drain it well. For a twist, mango or peaches can be delightful substitutes!
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control of salt. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using olive oil instead. Vegan butter is also a great substitute for a plant-based option.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the dish with their aromas. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work, just remember to use less since they’re more potent. A pinch of Italian seasoning can also be a quick substitute!
How Do I Fold Foil Packets Properly?
Folding foil packets seems tricky, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it! The goal is to create a sealed pouch that keeps in moisture and flavor.
- Start with a large sheet of foil, about 12 inches long.
- Place the salmon and other ingredients in the center.
- Bring the long edges of the foil together and fold them down a few times to seal.
- Fold over the shorter ends tightly to keep everything inside but leave a little space at the top for steam to circulate.
Following these steps will ensure your salmon cooks evenly and stays moist! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Easy Salmon Foil Packs with Pineapple and Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Aluminum foil, enough to create packets
- Optional sides: green beans, diced potatoes, or vegetables of choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 18-20 minutes for baking, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your salmon cooks perfectly.
2. Prepare Aluminum Foil:
Grab two large sheets of aluminum foil. You want enough to wrap each salmon fillet individually, so make sure they’re big enough—about 12-14 inches in length works well!
3. Make Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and set aside.
4. Assemble the Foil Packs:
Place each salmon fillet in the center of its own foil sheet. Scatter the fresh pineapple chunks around the salmon. This will give your dish a great flavor and juicy texture!
5. Add Garlic Butter:
Spread half of your garlic butter mixture over each salmon fillet. Make sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor!
6. Optional Veggies:
If you want to add vegetables, now is the time. Toss in some green beans, diced potatoes, or any vegetable you like next to the salmon for a complete meal.
7. Seal the Foil Packets:
Now, fold the sides of the foil up and over the salmon to create sealed packets. Make sure they are tightly closed but leave a little space for steam to circulate inside.
8. Bake in the Oven:
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The aroma will be irresistible!
9. Open and Serve:
Carefully open the foil packets to avoid any steam burns. Spoon the flavorful melted garlic butter sauce over the salmon and pineapple for an extra punch of flavor.
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious salmon foil packs immediately! The combination of the sweet pineapple and savory garlic butter will be a hit at your table!
This recipe offers a delightful, hassle-free dinner option, combining the freshness of salmon with the sweetness of pineapple—all made in minutes and with easy clean-up!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Pineapple?
No worries! You can use canned pineapple in juice or syrup. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the foil packs. Alternatively, diced mango or peach can make a delicious substitute!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus would all pair beautifully with salmon and pineapple. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the salmon and any veggies in the microwave or a preheated oven until heated through. Enjoy your meal again!
