Grill Like a Pro: How to Barbeque Salmon in Foil

salmon in foil pack

Salmon foil packets allow you to infuse the salmon with aromas from additional ingredients such as lemon slices, onion powder, garlic butter, smoked paprika and more!


Grilled Salmon in Foil

One of the more delicious and healthier ways to cook salmon is to grill salmon in foil.

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and is a great source of protein, making it a popular choice for health-conscious people.

Cooking salmon in foil is a great way to achieve moist and flavorful results, while also keeping it simple and easy to prepare.



salmon packet
Create a salmon-falling-apart-in-your-mouth texture by wrapping the fish in a foil pack.


In this article, we will take you through all the necessary steps, from choosing the right type of salmon fillets to wrapping in foil and cooking it to perfection.

We will also provide tips and tricks to make your salmon barbecuing experience a success.

Whether you are an experienced grill master or just starting out, this article will help you create a delicious yet simple grilled salmon that will impress.


grilled salmon

If you like grilled salmon skin that is dry and crispy, you're probably in the wrong place.


Preparing the Salmon

  • Start by selecting fresh and sustainably sourced salmon fillets with a bright pink-orange color and shiny, silver skin.

  • Marinate the salmon with your choice of liquids and flavors such as soy sauce, honey, herbs, or fresh lemon juice for added flavor.

  • Season the fish with salt, pepper, or a rub made of herbs and spices before grilling.

leftover salmon

Wild-caught salmon is considered to have a stronger, more distinct taste than farmed salmon, due to its diet - making it a popular choice in gourmet and upscale cuisine.


To cook grilled salmon, the first step is to prep salmon correctly.

What you'd want is a fresh salmon fillet. Look for a bright pink-orange color with shiny silver skin, and avoid ones with skin that looks lifeless and dull, or if the flesh has faded to grey.

When seasoning, a dash of salt and pepper or a rub made of herbs and spices can enhance the natural flavor of the salmon.

You could try ready-made rubs such as the Traeger Fin & Feather Rub for your salmon fillet - without needing you to refer to a grilled salmon recipe.


Cooking Salmon in Foil

The key to cooking salmon in foil is to ensure that the fish is wrapped securely in the aluminum foil to trap moisture and flavors.

To wrap the salmon in foil, you will need a large sheet of heavy-duty foil.

Place the seasoned salmon in the center of the foil and add additional seasonings such as melted butter, garlic powder, cherry tomatoes, or lemon zest.

Bring the edges of the foil up around the fish, sealing it tightly to create a parcel.



gas grill fish

Cooking with salmon packets makes meal prep simple, as they allow you to create delicious food without the added stress of a messy cleanup.


It's important to make sure there are no holes or tears in the tin foil to prevent the juices and flavors from escaping.

Once the fish is wrapped in foil, it can be placed on the grill.

You could also place it on a charcoal grill for added smokey aroma.

The great thing about grilling salmon in foil is that after the cookout, you won't need to clean and scrub the grill grates.


Cooking Time

Cooking times and temperatures will vary depending on the thickness of the fish and the temperature of your grill, though salmon cooks on an average cooking time of about 15-20 minutes at around 350-375°F.

Using a meat thermometer such as the Meater+ to check the internal temperature of the fish is the most accurate way to ensure it's cooked through.

Properly grilling the aluminum foil-wrapped salmon will give you moist and flavorful results, perfect for a delicious barbecue meal.



cook fish with meat thermometer

Easily avoid undercooked or overcooked salmon by using a thermometer. Use the Meater+ and make the best grilled salmon that is cooked just right.


Serving and Presentation

Remove the cooked salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before unwrapping the foil packet.

A nicely cooked salmon flakes easily and is moist, with a beautiful color and a flavorful crust.

One way to serve salmon is to flake the fish with a fork, and place it over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice, and top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of vinaigrette or olive oil.

Another way to season grilled salmon you've cooked is by pouring the juice that's collected inside the aluminum foil onto the grilled salmon.

Serve with pasta salad as a side dish.

Adding a nice plating and presentation will make the meal more attractive and appetizing, making it a perfect dish for entertaining or special occasion.



flaky salmon

One technique used by professional chefs is to place the grilled salmon at a diagonal on the plate, as this creates a more dynamic and interesting presentation.


Conclusion

In conclusion, utilizing an aluminium foil is a simple way to making grilled salmon that is healthy and tasty.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to choose the right type of salmon fillet, prepare it with marinades and seasonings, and how to grill salmon to perfection using foil cooking techniques.

Serving and presentation are also important factors to consider, whether you want to flake the fish and serve it over a bed of rice or greens or serve it whole, garnished with herbs and lemon wedges.



raw salmon

One great way to garnish salmon is by using fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives, which will add a burst of flavor and color.


Don't forget to experiment with different marinades, herbs, and spices to find your own perfect combination of flavors.

And don't be afraid to play with different fish and cooking methods, to find what you enjoy the most.

And remember to always practice safe and clean handling of food when preparing, grilling, and serving.