Grilling fish can be intimidating, but with the right method, you can easily master the art of grilling salmon. Say goodbye to burnt veggies and fish falling through the grill grates. This simple recipe for grilled smoked salmon in a foil pouch is perfect for weeknight dinners and will have you enjoying tender and flavorful fish in no time.
The Importance of Skin
When selecting a salmon fillet for grilling, make sure it has the skin on one side. The layer of fat between the meat and skin crisps up beautifully on the grill, adding a delicious texture and flavor to the fish. Additionally, the skin acts as a binder, keeping the meat intact and making it easier to handle. If you're not a fan of eating the skin, it can be easily peeled off and discarded after cooking.
If you're not in the mood for salmon or can't find a good-quality fillet, you can also use other meaty and slightly fatty fish such as arctic char, mackerel, bluefish, yellowtail, or trout.
Preparing the Foil Packet
Begin by placing the salmon fillet, skin side down, on a large piece of foil. The foil should be large enough to fold over and create a packet that will keep all the cooking juices inside. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, fresh dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Spread this flavorful mixture over the entire top of the fillet, ensuring that it is well-covered.
Next, fold the foil around the fish, leaving a small opening at the top to allow steam to escape. This will help reduce the cooking liquid slightly, resulting in a sticky brown sauce. The skin will become slightly charred, adding a delightful smoky flavor to the fish. Although you can cook this recipe in the oven, grilling it in a foil pouch is ideal for summer cooking, as it eliminates the need for a hot oven.
No Flipping Required
One of the best things about this grilled salmon in foil method is that there's no flipping required. The foil packet prevents the fish skin from sticking to the grill grates, making it stress-free and mess-free. The salmon cooks in approximately 20 minutes, and it's important to remove it from the grill at that point. The foil packet retains heat, continuing to cook the fish slightly as it rests. The final result is a dreamy fish dinner: flaky, soft, and bursting with the flavors of butter, lemon, garlic, and dill.
- Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can use other meaty and slightly fatty fish such as arctic char, mackerel, bluefish, yellowtail, or trout.
- Can I cook this recipe in the oven? Yes, you can cook the salmon in a foil packet in the oven. However, grilling it adds a wonderful smoky flavor.
- Do I need to flip the salmon? No, the foil packet prevents the need for flipping, making it a stress-free grilling method.
- How long does the salmon take to cook? The salmon cooks in approximately 20 minutes, but it's important to remove it from the grill at that point to prevent overcooking.
Grilled smoked salmon in a foil pouch is a fantastic way to enjoy tender and flavorful fish without the fear of mishaps on the grill. With the skin providing a crispy texture and the foil packet ensuring a mess-free cooking experience, this recipe is a winner. Whether you're a salmon lover or prefer other meaty fish, this method will have you grilling delicious seafood in no time. So, fire up the grill, grab some foil, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering salmon dinner that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
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