Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Paper

Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Paper: A Flavorful, Healthy Dinner

Introduction

For a fresh and vibrant meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors, try this delicious Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Paper recipe. Not only is it packed with heart-healthy salmon, but it’s also filled with an irresistible mix of kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and capers, all drizzled with fragrant pesto. Cooking the salmon in parchment paper locks in moisture and flavor, making this dish incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 1 (2-pound) salmon fillet
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup artichoke hearts
• 1/4 cup capers
• 3 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
• 1/3 cup pesto sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Lay a long sheet of parchment paper on a large baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough paper to wrap and fold around the salmon fillet.

2. Season the Salmon

• Place the salmon fillet in the center of the parchment paper. Sprinkle the fish evenly with sea salt, paprika, ground ginger, and dried dill to season it.

3. Add Mediterranean Toppings

• Evenly distribute the kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, capers, and fresh dill over the seasoned salmon.
• Drizzle the salmon with pesto sauce, making sure to coat the toppings for extra flavor.

4. Seal the Parchment Packet

• Fold the sides of the parchment paper over the salmon, then fold the ends to create a sealed packet. You can secure the packet with kitchen twine if needed to keep it tightly sealed.
• Make sure there are no openings in the packet to lock in the moisture during cooking.

5. Bake the Salmon

• Place the parchment packet on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. For thicker cuts of salmon, bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

6. Serve

• Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and cut the twine. Open the parchment packet carefully, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape.
• Slice the salmon into individual portions and serve with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple salad.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Tips for Success

• Choosing Salmon: For best results, opt for fresh, high-quality salmon. You can use skin-on or skinless fillets depending on your preference.
• Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with other Mediterranean ingredients such as roasted red peppers, feta cheese, or lemon slices to customize the flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook: Cooking the salmon in parchment ensures that the fish remains moist, but be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Paper is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The parchment paper technique locks in moisture and infuses the fish with the bold Mediterranean flavors of olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers, all topped off with a bright pesto drizzle. It’s a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Pair it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

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