Print

Basil Baked Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 3 reviews

This Basil Baked Salmon recipe features tender, flavorful salmon fillets marinated in a fragrant blend of olive oil, garlic, fresh basil, parsley, salt, and pepper, then baked to perfection in foil. The foil packets lock in moisture, resulting in moist, flaky fish with a fresh herb aroma—perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 lb salmon fillet

Marinade

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ teaspoons fresh basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the salmon evenly and quickly.
  2. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh basil, salt, freshly ground pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix these ingredients thoroughly so the flavors meld together.
  3. Cut Salmon: Cut the salmon fillet into four equal portions to ensure even cooking and easy serving.
  4. Prepare Foil Packet: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with a sheet of tin foil large enough to fold over and seal the salmon completely. This foil packet will trap steam, keeping the salmon moist as it bakes.
  5. Assemble Packets: Place the salmon fillets onto the foil. Pour the prepared marinade evenly over each piece, making sure each fillet is well coated.
  6. Seal Foil: Carefully fold the foil over the salmon, sealing all edges to create a tight packet. This step is crucial to trap the steam and infuse the salmon with the herb flavors.
  7. Bake Salmon: Place the baking dish with the foil packets into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, which allows the salmon to cook through and become tender.
  8. Check for Doneness: At around 20 minutes, check the salmon by gently pulling apart a flake with a fork. The fish should be pink and flake easily when done. Avoid overcooking to maintain moistness.

Notes

  • Using fresh herbs enhances the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
  • Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should remain moist and tender.
  • Foil packets help lock in moisture and prevent the salmon from drying out.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.