Imagine cutting open a steaming parchment packet to reveal a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, surrounded by vibrant vegetables and infused with zesty lemon flavor. This isn't just another fish recipe—it's a foolproof cooking method that transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes! Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this Salmon in Parchment Paper technique will revolutionize your dinner game and impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the parchment paper by cutting two large rectangles, approximately 12x16 inches each. These will be used to wrap the salmon and vegetables.
- Place one salmon fillet in the center of each piece of parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space around the edges for folding.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each salmon fillet. This will help keep the fish moist and add flavor.
- Season each fillet with salt and pepper to taste. Be generous but not overwhelming, as you want the natural flavors of the salmon and vegetables to shine through.
- On top of each salmon fillet, layer the thinly sliced lemon, zucchini slices, and julienned carrots. Distributing the vegetables evenly will enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables for added moisture and flavor.
- Carefully fold the parchment paper over the salmon and vegetables, creating a sealed packet. Start by folding the edges together and then crimping them tightly to ensure no steam escapes during cooking.
- Place the parchment packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The vegetables should also be tender but still vibrant in color.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the packets to rest for a minute before opening, as steam will escape.
- Open the parchment packets and serve the salmon and vegetables directly on plates, or enjoy them right from the parchment for a rustic presentation.
- Garnish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious salmon in parchment paper!
Tips
- Choose high-quality, fresh salmon fillets with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the parchment paper—leave enough space for steam to circulate and cook the fish.
- Use a sharp knife to julienne carrots and slice zucchini for uniform cooking and elegant presentation.
- Check salmon doneness by gently flaking with a fork—it should be opaque and easily separate.
- For extra flavor, experiment with herbs like dill, thyme, or basil sprinkled over the fish before sealing.
- If you don't have parchment paper, aluminum foil works as a suitable alternative.
- Let the packets rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and steam to settle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
