Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, healthy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than this Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon. Bursting with flavor and nutrients, this dish combines the rich taste of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of orange and molasses. The best part? Everything cooks together in a neat little package, ensuring minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon. First and foremost, the flavors are incredibly well-balanced. The citrus from the orange complements the rich taste of the salmon, while the molasses adds a hint of sweetness and depth. Additionally, the versatility of this dish is extraordinary. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it a fantastic option for any season. Lastly, the foil pack method steams the salmon and vegetables to perfection, leaving you with moist, tender bites that are simply irresistible.

What We’re Using

• 1/2 to 3/4 pound center cut salmon fillet: Fresh, high-quality salmon is key. Look for bright, firm flesh.
• 1 medium orange: Sliced thin for nestling under the salmon, adding moisture and flavor.
• 2 cups sugar snap peas: These add a sweet crunch; feel free to substitute with bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
• 1 medium orange (for juice): About 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice to enhance the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon molasses: A rich, dark syrup that adds depth and sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To keep everything moist and flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: For a savory umami touch.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Aluminum foil: Makes the foil packs; heavy-duty is best.
• Sharp knife: For slicing the orange and preparing the vegetables.
• Cutting board: A must-have for any prep work.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To catch any drips and make handling the foil packs easier.

Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and gear.

Step 2: Create the Foil Pack

Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil, each large enough to hold a salmon fillet and the vegetables. Place one piece of foil on top of the other, creating a double layer for extra strength.

Step 3: Add the Orange Slices

Lay the thin slices of the medium orange in the center of the foil. This acts as a flavorful bed for the salmon, allowing the citrus essence to infuse throughout the dish.

Step 4: Place the Salmon

Nestle the salmon fillet on top of the orange slices. This is where the magic begins. The salmon will absorb the orange flavor while cooking.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Surround the salmon with the sugar snap peas (or your chosen vegetables). This not only adds color but also contributes to a balanced meal.

Step 6: Mix the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of the medium orange, molasses, olive oil, soy sauce, and a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This marinade will soak into the salmon and vegetables, enhancing their flavors.

Step 7: Drizzle and Seal

Pour the marinade over the salmon and vegetables. Then, carefully fold the edges of the foil to create a sealed packet. Make sure there are no gaps for steam to escape.

Step 8: Bake

Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 9: Finishing Touch

Once cooked, carefully open the foil pack (watch out for hot steam!) and drizzle an additional 1/2 tablespoon of molasses over the salmon for an extra touch of sweetness if desired.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon directly from the foil or transfer to a plate. Enjoy with your favorite side dish or a light salad for a complete meal.

Year-Round Variations

• Swap in seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring or Brussels sprouts in the fall for a fresh twist.
• Use different citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit for a unique flavor profile.
• Add fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro for an aromatic touch.
• Experiment with different types of fish, such as tilapia or cod, for a change of pace.

Method to the Madness

The method behind this dish is all about simplicity and maximizing flavor. The foil pack technique allows the salmon and vegetables to steam while infusing them with the zesty orange and sweet molasses. The result is moist, flaky salmon paired with crisp-tender vegetables, all within a matter of minutes. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—just toss the foil when you’re done!

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the foil packs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. To store leftovers, simply place any uneaten salmon and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook the salmon.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What if I don’t have molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Absolutely! You can place the foil pack on a preheated grill for a smoky flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Final Bite

This Foil Pack Orange Molasses Salmon is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant experience that brings together the warmth of home-cooked goodness and the freshness of seasonal ingredients. The simplicity of the foil pack method means you can whip this up even on the busiest of nights while still treating yourself to something special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!