This Ginger Basil Salmon baked in foil is a healthy, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s simple to prepare and ready in about 20 minutes.
A quick, impressive dinner can still be wholesome and fast. This Ginger Basil Salmon in foil is seasoned with a bright, tangy-sweet, slightly spicy marinade and finished under the broiler for a beautiful glaze. The recipe is ideal for busy evenings — minimal prep, a single pan, and delicious results that taste like you spent much longer in the kitchen than you did.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
- Fast: ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy: low in carbs and high in protein, making it a satisfying, nutritious option.
- Easy cleanup: cooking in foil keeps the baking sheet clean and makes storing leftovers simple.
- Flavorful: the marinade balances sweet, spicy and tangy notes without refined sugar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Salmon fillet – about 2 lb whole fillet, skin-on. Wild-caught or farmed are both fine; if using frozen, fully thaw before cooking.
- Salt – to season the salmon (about 1/2 tsp, adjust to taste).
- Rice vinegar – 3 Tbsp for mild acidity; white or apple cider vinegar can be substituted.
- Lemon juice – juice of half a lemon for bright, fresh flavor.
- Honey – 1 Tbsp to balance the spice; maple syrup or another natural sweetener works too.
- Reduced-sodium soy sauce – 1 Tbsp; tamari or coconut aminos will make the dish gluten-free.
- Fresh ginger – 1 Tbsp, grated for aromatic heat.
- Sriracha – 2 tsp for spice; omit or reduce for a milder version.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced.
- Fresh basil – 2 Tbsp, chopped. Fresh cilantro or parsley are good alternatives.
How to Make Ginger Basil Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the salmon fillet in the center. Lightly season the fillet with salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, sriracha, minced garlic and chopped basil until well combined.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the salmon so the surface is coated. Wrap the fillet tightly in the foil to form a sealed packet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is nearly cooked through. For a glossy finish and a touch of charring, open the foil and place the salmon under the broiler for 3–5 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork and develops color.
- Remove from oven, let rest a minute, then serve immediately.
Salmon Health Benefits
Salmon is a nutrient-dense fish that provides high-quality protein and a range of important nutrients. It is well known for its omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health, and it contains vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall wellness. Including salmon as a regular part of a balanced diet can help add healthy fats and protein to meals.
How to Serve This Salmon
- Include roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers either baked with the salmon or served on the side for a complete plate.
- Top a bed of mixed greens for a quick salad meal — leftover salmon works especially well tossed into salads.
- Serve with whole grains or grain alternatives, such as brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to round out the meal.
Prep and Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. To reheat, wrap the salmon in foil and warm it in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 5–8 minutes, or reheat briefly in the microwave (remove foil before microwaving). Leftover salmon makes a convenient protein addition to salads, bowls, or sandwiches.
Recipe Details
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes (plus optional broil 3–5 minutes)
- Total time: About 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 (based on 4 oz salmon per serving)
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Serving size: 4 oz salmon
- Calories: 222 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3.7 g
- Protein: 28.9 g
- Fat: 9.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
- Sodium: 275.9 mg
- Fiber: 0.1 g
- Sugar: 2.3 g
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and should be used as approximations.
Variations and Tips
- For less heat, reduce or omit the sriracha and add a pinch of black pepper for mild spice.
- Swap basil for cilantro for a different herbal profile, or add a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Add sliced vegetables (thin asparagus, bell pepper strips, or snap peas) to the foil packet to cook alongside the salmon and make it a one-sheet meal.
More Salmon Ideas
- Hummus-crusted salmon with lemon arugula salad
- Chimichurri baked salmon
- Ginger soy glazed sheet pan salmon
- Chili-rubbed salmon with summer corn salad
- Mango sriracha salmon tacos
If you try this Ginger Basil Salmon in Foil, enjoy the ease and bright flavors — it’s perfect for an effortless, healthy weeknight dinner.