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

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?
Can I add vegetables to the foil parcel?
Is it better to bake salmon covered or uncovered?
Can I prepare the parcels in advance?
Delia Smith Salmon in Foil
Course: Main CourseCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesTender 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.
