Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I slid open the oven door, an enchanting aroma swept through my kitchen, whisking me away to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. This Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment is not just a meal; it’s a delightful embrace of flavors featuring fresh herbs, briny olives, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes. Embracing a healthy cooking method, this dish delivers perfectly flaky salmon with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or those special gatherings when you want to impress. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy choice that’s rich in omega-3s, giving you every reason to savor each bite guilt-free. Curious about how easy this gourmet experience can be? Let’s dive right in! Why is Mediterranean Salmon a Must-Try? Flavorful Experience: Each bite of this Mediterranean Salmon is a delicious journey, bursting with the best of fresh herbs, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Effortless Cooking: The parchment method means minimal mess and easy cleanup, making it perfect for novice cooks. Heart-Healthy Choice: Packed with omega-3s, this dish promotes heart health without sacrificing taste. Versatile Pairings: Serve alongside Mediterranean rice, grilled veggies, or a simple salad for a complete meal, like with Honey Glazed Salmon for added inspiration. Gourmet Appeal: Impress your guests with a dish that feels upscale yet is quick to prepare; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Mediterranean Salmon Ingredients • Discover the vibrant flavors with these simple components! For the Salmon Salmon Fillet – A fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids that keep your heart happy; fresh or frozen will work beautifully. Sea Salt – Enhances the salmon’s natural flavor; kosher salt is a great substitute. For the Seasoning Paprika – Adds a touch of mild smokiness; swap for smoked paprika if you crave a bolder flavor. Ground Ginger – Introduces warmth and depth; fresh ginger can be used if you want a more pronounced taste. Dried Dill – Offers a fresh herbal essence; fresh dill delivers an even brighter kick if you have it on hand. For the Toppings Kalamata Olives – Bring a briny richness typical of Mediterranean cuisine; any pitted olives will do if you’re in a pinch. Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Infuse tangy sweetness; for a lighter version, use fresh tomatoes. Artichoke Hearts – Add unique texture and earthy depth; canned or frozen hearts work perfectly. Capers – Surprise your palate with bursts of salty goodness; replace with green olives if capers aren’t available. Fresh Dill Sprigs – Brightens up your dish with aromatic freshness; feel free to leave out if you’re missing it. Pesto Sauce – Unites flavors with rich herby goodness; both homemade and store-bought options shine in this dish. Now that you have all the essential components, you’re well on your way to creating a culinary masterpiece that truly embraces the essence of Mediterranean flavors in every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grab a large piece of parchment paper and lay it flat on a baking tray. Make sure it’s big enough to hold your salmon and toppings comfortably, allowing for some space to seal the packet later. Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Place your salmon fillet in the center of the parchment paper. Generously sprinkle sea salt, paprika, ground ginger, and dried dill over the salmon, creating a flavorful foundation. You should see the vibrant colors of the spices contrast beautifully against the pink hue of the salmon, enticing your senses already. Step 3: Add Toppings Now, layer the kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and capers directly on top of the salmon. Add fresh dill sprigs for an extra burst of herbal aroma. Finally, drizzle a generous amount of pesto sauce over everything. The colors will pop, making your Mediterranean Salmon feel alive and inviting. Step 4: Seal & Bake Carefully fold the parchment paper over the salmon, creating a tightly sealed packet to trap in flavors and moisture. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Your dish is done when the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C); it should appear moist and flaky, ready to delight. Step 5: Serve Once baking is complete, remove the packet from the oven. Let it sit for a minute to avoid steam burns, then carefully cut it open to reveal your beautifully cooked Mediterranean Salmon. Plate the salmon along with any juices, and enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete, heart-healthy meal experience. Expert Tips for Mediterranean Salmon Seal it Tight: Ensure your salmon packet is sealed thoroughly to trap all that delightful steam and flavor during cooking. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for salmon tails over fillets; they cook faster and tend to be more tender, making your Mediterranean Salmon even more delicious. Check the Temperature: Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking; keep a close eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) for perfect results. Add More Flavor: Experiment with additional toppings like crumbled feta or lemon zest for extra flavor and brightness; they can elevate your Mediterranean Salmon to new heights. Prep Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance—just seal and refrigerate until ready to bake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights! Pair Perfectly: Enhance your meal experience by serving with a light green salad or fluffy Mediterranean rice for a refreshing and balanced dinner. Make Ahead Options These Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment packets are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the salmon and toppings up to 24 hours in advance, sealing them in the parchment paper and refrigerating until ready to bake. This will keep your salmon fresh and flavorful, ensuring it tastes just as delicious when you finally cook it. To maintain quality, be sure to keep the packet tightly sealed to lock in moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop the prepared packet into a preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until the fish flakily reaches the ideal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It’s a quick and healthy meal solution perfect for those busy weeknights! Mediterranean Salmon: Creative Twists Get ready to customize this Mediterranean Salmon dish with delicious variations that invite your culinary imagination to run wild! Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta on top before sealing for a tangy kick that introduces a creamy texture. Lemon Zest: A splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten up the dish, enhancing the fresh flavors beautifully. Seasonal Vegetables: Toss in fresh zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition, embracing the authentic Mediterranean spirit. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful heat that perfectly balances the brininess of olives. Herb Variations: Swap the dry dill with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an exciting twist that highlights different flavor profiles. Nutty Crunch: Add sliced almonds or pine nuts before sealing to enjoy an unexpected crunch that elevates each bite. Soy Sauce Umami: Drizzle a bit of soy sauce or tamari to deepen the flavor profile while keeping the dish light. For more Mediterranean inspirations, consider trying this Orange Glazed Salmon or an uplifting take with Honey Glazed Salmon, each offering unique flavor combinations that are sure to excite your palate! How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Salmon Fridge: Keep leftover Mediterranean Salmon sealed in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor while preventing the fish from drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the quality and prevents freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen Mediterranean Salmon, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat wrapped in parchment at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. What to Serve with Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Elevate your dining experience with complementary sides that perfectly balance the vibrant flavors of this dish. Fluffy Mediterranean Rice: A tender, aromatic base that soaks up the delicious juices from the salmon, adding a satisfying texture to your meal. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky, charred flavor of grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with the brininess of olives and richness of salmon. Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, enhancing the Mediterranean experience and bringing out the salmon’s natural flavors. Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the tender salmon. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes provide a hearty side that complements the fish while bringing a comforting, starchy element to the plate. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, they bring a wonderful texture and soak up the flavors of the salmon without being heavy. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: A creamy dip made with yogurt and cucumber adds a cool, tangy element that balances the rich, flavorful salmon. White Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the Mediterranean experience and pairs perfectly with the flavors of the dish. Let these ideas inspire your table, turning a delicious dish into a memorable feast! Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment Recipe FAQs How do I select the best salmon fillet? Absolutely! Look for fresh salmon fillets that have a bright pink color and a clean, ocean-like smell. Avoid any fillets that appear dull or have dark spots all over, as these indicate that the fish may not be fresh. If purchasing frozen fillets, ensure they are firm to the touch and free from ice crystals. How should I store leftover Mediterranean Salmon? Very! Leftover Mediterranean Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor. If you’d like to prolong its freshness, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing it in the container to create a tight seal. Can I freeze Mediterranean Salmon? Absolutely! To freeze your Mediterranean Salmon, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the reheating instructions. What if my salmon overcooks in the oven? Very! If your salmon is overcooked, it can become tough. To avoid this in the future, invest in a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly tender salmon! If you notice it’s starting to flake too easily, it may be a sign it has cooked too long. Remember, cooking times may vary based on fillet thickness, so keep an eye during the last few minutes! Is this Mediterranean Salmon healthy for my pets? Certainly! While salmon can be a wonderful protein for dogs in moderation, it’s essential to ensure any seasoning is excluded. Never let your pets consume seasoned leftovers, especially with garlic or onion present, as these are toxic to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet! Can I customize this recipe with different vegetables? Absolutely! The beauty of this Mediterranean Salmon in Parchment is its versatility. You can swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, which are not only nutritious but add a lovely pop of color. Just keep in mind to cut them thinly to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the salmon! Mediterranean Salmon: Juicy, Flavorful, & Easy to Make Enjoy this Mediterranean Salmon for a delicious, heart-healthy dinner infused with fresh herbs and vibrant flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 2 filletsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon1 fillet Salmon Fillet fresh or frozen1 teaspoon Sea Salt kosher salt works as a substituteFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika for bolder flavor1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger fresh ginger can be used for a stronger taste1 teaspoon Dried Dill fresh dill can be used for brighter flavorFor the Toppings1/4 cup Kalamata Olives pitted1/4 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes or fresh tomatoes for lighter version1/4 cup Artichoke Hearts canned or frozen1 tablespoon Capers or green olives if unavailable2 sprigs Fresh Dill Sprigs optional2 tablespoons Pesto Sauce homemade or store-bought Equipment OvenParchment paperBaking tray Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large piece of parchment paper on a baking tray.Place the salmon fillet in the center of the parchment paper, and sprinkle sea salt, paprika, ground ginger, and dried dill over it.Layer kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and capers on top, adding fresh dill and a generous amount of pesto sauce.Seal the parchment paper to create a packet, and bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).Let the packet sit for a minute, then cut it open and serve the Mediterranean Salmon with any juices and your favorite sides. Nutrition Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure the salmon packet is sealed tightly to trap steam and flavors during cooking. Opt for salmon tails for tender results. Experiment with additional toppings for extra flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
