Steaming Salmon Perfection: Foil-Wrapped For Moisture

Cooking salmon in foil is an innovative, foolproof, and healthy method that yields a buttery, fresh, evenly cooked fish without requiring much precision. The foil seals in moisture and boosts flavour, even with minimal seasoning. It also reduces the chances of the tender salmon breaking apart. The clean-up is also easier since everything is wrapped in foil.

Characteristics of cooking salmon in foil

How to prepare the ingredients

To prepare salmon in foil, you will need the following ingredients:

• Salmon fillets (with or without skin)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetables of your choice (e.g. onion, carrot, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, spinach)
• Herbs and seasonings (e.g. rosemary, basil, thyme, oregano, lemon juice)
• Other flavour enhancers (e.g. butter, garlic, sake, soy sauce)

Firstly, remove the salmon from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. This will help the salmon cook more evenly. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the salmon fillets.

Next, prepare your chosen vegetables and herbs. For vegetables such as onions and carrots, slice them thinly or cut them into julienne strips to ensure they cook through. For herbs like basil and rosemary, separate them into small pieces. If using garlic, mince or press the cloves.

Now it's time to assemble the foil packets! Place a sheet of aluminium foil on a baking sheet and brush it with olive oil. You can also add a thin layer of butter in the centre of the foil. This will help prevent the salmon from sticking and add flavour. Place one salmon fillet on the foil, skin-side down.

Add your chosen vegetables, herbs, and seasonings on top of the salmon. Drizzle with olive oil and add a splash of sake or another liquid of your choice. You can also include a slice of butter on top for extra flavour and moisture.

Finally, fold up the edges of the foil and create a sealed packet. Make sure there is a little room inside the foil for air to circulate. Your salmon is now ready to be cooked!

How to make the foil packets

To make the foil packets, you will need two sheets of aluminium foil for each salmon fillet. Each sheet should be around 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm).

Firstly, lightly grease the foil with a cooking spray or a teaspoon of olive oil. Place one sheet of foil on top of the other and smear the top sheet with half a tablespoon of olive oil.

Next, layer your chosen ingredients on top of the foil. This could include salmon, tomatoes, basil, garlic, butter, mushrooms, carrots, onion, lemon slices, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, or sugar.

After layering your ingredients, bring the top and bottom of the foil together over the salmon and fold a few times to close the top. Then, bring the sides together and fold a few times to create a tightly sealed packet. Make sure to leave a little room inside the foil for air to circulate.

Repeat this process for each salmon fillet. You can prepare the foil packets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How to cook the salmon on the stovetop

Cooking salmon on the stovetop is an easy and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal without having to heat up your oven. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook salmon on the stovetop using the steaming method with foil:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather your ingredients, which include salmon fillets, salt, pepper, butter, and any vegetables or seasonings of your choice. You can also use olive oil or cooking spray as an alternative to butter.

Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets

Cut two sheets of aluminum foil, each measuring 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm). Spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil in the center of each foil sheet. Place your salmon fillet on top of the butter or oil, and season with salt and pepper. If using, add your choice of vegetables or seasonings on top of the salmon.

Step 3: Create the Foil Packets

Bring the top and bottom of the foil together over the salmon and fold several times to create a sealed packet. Make sure there is enough room inside the foil for air to circulate. Repeat this process for each fillet.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon on the Stovetop

Place the foil packets in a frying pan and cover with a lid. It is not necessary to add water as the salmon will steam inside the foil. Cook the salmon over medium heat for 2 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Carefully open the foil packet, being cautious of the hot steam, and check if the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness. For well-done salmon, the flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your salmon is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the foil and plate it. You can serve it with a side of your choice, such as steamed rice, miso soup, or a salad. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stovetop salmon!

How to bake the salmon in the oven

How to Bake Salmon in the Oven

Baking salmon in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this healthy fish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfect, tender, and flaky salmon every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for baking salmon is between 350°F to 425°F. A higher temperature is suitable for thinner, individual salmon fillets, while a slightly lower temperature is better for thicker sides of salmon.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet and Foil

Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper. The foil will help to lock in moisture and create a flavourful steam, ensuring your salmon is moist and tender. If using foil, lightly coat it with baking spray or brush with olive oil.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

For a simple seasoning, drizzle olive oil over the salmon fillets and rub it all over. Then, generously season the salmon with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like dried oregano, thyme, or fresh herbs such as dill, rosemary, or parsley.

Step 4: Assemble the Salmon on the Foil

Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the prepared foil. If desired, you can add sliced lemons, garlic, or other ingredients of your choice on top of the salmon for additional flavour.

Step 5: Create a Foil Packet

Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon, creating a packet that fully encloses the fish. Make sure to seal the edges of the foil packet to prevent any steam from escaping. Leave a little room inside the packet for air to circulate.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon

Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven. The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon and the temperature of your oven. For individual fillets, bake for 12 to 14 minutes at 400°F, or 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F for a thicker side of salmon.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

To check if your salmon is done, insert a sharp knife into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and is no longer translucent, it is ready. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; the FDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully open the foil packet, being cautious of the hot steam. Transfer the salmon to plates and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh herbs or an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Baked salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

How to serve the salmon

Salmon is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and the occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve your delicious steamed salmon:

• Rice: Salmon and rice is a classic combination. For a citrusy twist, try serving it with lemon rice, or go for a healthier option like Instant Pot Brown Rice.
• Salads: For a cool and refreshing side dish, pair your salmon with a veggie-loaded grain salad. Options include an Italian farro salad, Israeli couscous salad, or a hearty green salad like a BLT chopped salad.
• Roasted vegetables: Think about serving your salmon with roasted vegetables such as oven-roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or asparagus. You can pop them in the oven alongside the salmon for an easy and tasty side dish.
• Soups: Consider serving your salmon with a creamy asparagus soup or a hearty miso soup, especially if you're looking for a warming option during colder months.
• Stir-fry: If you're feeling adventurous, try serving your salmon with a stir-fry. This could include vegetables like green beans, carrots, or bell peppers, and your choice of protein such as chicken or tofu.
• Pasta: Salmon goes well with pasta dishes. You can mix leftover salmon into a simple pasta dish or serve it on top of pasta with a lemon-butter sauce.

Remember, salmon is best enjoyed fresh, so it's recommended to serve it the same day it's prepared. However, if you have leftovers, you can get creative and incorporate them into dishes like salads, pasta, or scrambled eggs.

Frequently asked questions