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Baked salmon in parchment with lemon and herbs on white paper, ready to serve

Baked Salmon in Parchment with Chef John’s Flavorful Twist

A healthy, flavorful, and perfectly moist baked salmon recipe cooked in parchment paper. Infused with lemon, garlic, thyme, and a touch of honey, this dish is elegant, easy to prepare, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Modern European
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Oven
  • 1 Baking sheet
  • 1 Parchment paper
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Knife & cutting board
  • 1 Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 salmon fillets 6-8 oz each, skin removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2-4 large sheets of parchment paper about 12x12 inches each
  • Optional: fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Prepare the Salmon:
  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  • Make the Flavorful Sauce:
  • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and thyme.
  • Prepare Parchment Packets:
  • Place each salmon fillet in the center of a parchment sheet.
  • Spread a spoonful of the sauce on top of each fillet.
  • Arrange lemon slices over the salmon.
  • Seal the Parchment:
  • Fold the parchment over the salmon and crimp the edges tightly to create a sealed packet.
  • This traps steam, keeping the salmon moist and flavorful.
  • Bake:
  • Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, depending on thickness.
  • Salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
  • Serve:
  • Carefully open the packets (watch out for hot steam).
  • Transfer salmon to plates or serve directly in the parchment.
  • Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

  • Add thinly sliced fennel or zucchini for extra aroma and flavor.
  • A splash of soy sauce or extra lemon juice can elevate the taste.
  • Serve with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Keyword Baked salmon in parchment, easy baked salmon, foil packet salmon, healthy salmon recipe, salmon dinner