Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)
Seasoning and Sauce
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay a large piece of aluminum foil on a rimmed baking sheet and place the salmon fillet on top with the skin side down and the pink flesh side up. Fold and crimp the edges of the foil around the salmon to create a foil ‘boat’ that will help keep the fish moist while baking.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic. Brush about half of this garlic butter mixture evenly over the surface of the salmon. In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon. Finally, drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the seasoned fillet to add richness and flavor.
- Bake: Place the foil packet with the salmon onto the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 22 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness—15 minutes for medium-rare and up to 22 for well done. To enhance moisture and flavor, you can baste the salmon with the juices in the foil halfway through the cooking time. After baking, carefully remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
Notes
- Check internal temperature to determine doneness: 120°F for rare, 125°F for medium-rare, 140°F for well done.
- Using skin-on salmon helps keep the fish moist and adds flavor.
- Foil ‘boat’ allows for easy cleanup and steam retention during baking.
- Optionally substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat