Imagine the tantalizing aroma of perfectly baked salmon mingling with fresh asparagus and zesty lemon, all wrapped up in a charming parchment packet. Welcome to "Salmon and Veggies en Papillote" — a French culinary delight that not only looks stunning but also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite! This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you'll be wondering why you haven’t tried this recipe sooner. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and discover the art of cooking en papillote!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parchment paper for wrapping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Cut two large pieces of parchment paper, approximately 16 inches long, creating heart-shaped or rectangular packets.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning and cooking.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place each salmon fillet in the center of a parchment paper piece, slightly off-center towards one side.
- Arrange trimmed asparagus spears alongside the salmon, creating a bed of vegetables.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salmon and asparagus, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place 2-3 thin lemon slices directly on top of each salmon fillet.
- Fold the parchment paper over the salmon, creating a sealed packet by crimping and folding the edges tightly to prevent steam from escaping.
- Transfer the parchment packets to a baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before carefully opening the packets to prevent steam burns.
- Serve immediately in the parchment packets, allowing diners to open them at the table for a dramatic presentation.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets and vibrant asparagus. The freshness of your ingredients will shine through in the final dish.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can add a colorful twist and enhance the nutritional value.
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step: Patting the salmon dry before seasoning is crucial. This step helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a lovely, crispy exterior.
- Seal It Well: Make sure to crimp the edges of the parchment tightly to trap steam inside. This steaming method keeps the salmon moist and tender while infusing it with the flavors of the vegetables and lemon.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon as it cooks. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly to achieve the perfect doneness.
- Serve with Style: Present the packets directly at the table for a dramatic reveal! The steam escaping as you open them adds a touch of excitement to your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
