Delia Smith Salmon in Foil
Dinner

Delia Smith Salmon in Foil

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets, about 150g each, skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • A small handful of baby spinach
  • A splash of dry white wine
Delia Smith Salmon in Foil

How to Make Delia Smith Salmon in Foil

  • Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C or 180°C fan. Place a shelf in the middle of the oven so the salmon cooks evenly.
  • Prepare the foil parcels: Cut four large sheets of strong kitchen foil. Lightly brush the centre of each sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Season the salmon: Place one salmon fillet in the centre of each foil sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Add flavourings: Top each fillet with lemon slices, garlic, chopped parsley and dill. Add cherry tomatoes or spinach if using. A small splash of white wine can be added for extra moisture.
  • Seal the parcels: Fold the foil over the salmon and seal the edges tightly to create a secure parcel. Leave a little space inside for air to circulate.
  • Bake: Place the parcels on a baking tray and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
  • Rest and serve: Carefully open the parcels, watching for hot steam. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Tips for Perfect Salmon in Foil

How do I stop the salmon from drying out?

Make sure the foil is tightly sealed and avoid overbaking. Check the fish at 15 minutes, especially if the fillets are thin.

Can I cook the salmon from frozen?

It is best to thaw the salmon fully before cooking for even results. If cooking from frozen, add an extra 5 to 7 minutes and check carefully for doneness.

What herbs work well with salmon?

Dill and parsley are classic choices. Thyme, chives or a little tarragon also pair beautifully.

How do I know when salmon is cooked?

The flesh will turn opaque and gently flake when pressed with a fork. The centre should be just cooked but still moist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with new potatoes and steamed green beans
  • Pair with a crisp garden salad
  • Add buttered asparagus or tenderstem broccoli
  • Serve alongside fluffy basmati rice

Storage

Room Temperature

Do not leave cooked salmon at room temperature for more than 1 hour.

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold in salads.

Freezing

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Sodium: 220mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use salmon steaks instead of fillets?

Yes, salmon steaks work well. Increase the cooking time slightly and check that the centre is fully cooked.

Can I add vegetables to the foil parcel?

Yes, thinly sliced vegetables such as courgettes, peppers or spinach cook well inside the parcel.

Is it better to bake salmon covered or uncovered?

Baking in foil keeps the salmon moist and prevents drying out, which is ideal for tender results.

Can I prepare the parcels in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the foil parcels a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake.

Delia Smith Salmon in Foil

Recipe by Milli RoseCourse: Main CourseCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal
Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Tender oven-baked salmon sealed in foil with lemon, garlic and fresh herbs. Light, moist and full of flavour.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 lemon, sliced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • Salt and black pepper

  • Cherry tomatoes, optional

  • Baby spinach, optional

  • Splash of white wine, optional

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 200°C or 180°C fan.
  • Place salmon on oiled foil sheets and season well.
  • Add lemon, herbs and garlic.
  • Seal foil parcels tightly.
  • Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until cooked through.
  • Open carefully and serve warm.

Notes

  • Seal foil tightly to retain moisture.
  • Do not overcook to keep salmon tender.

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