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Easy Lemon Herb Salmon En Papillote Recipe with Zucchini for Healthy Dinners

lemon herb salmon en papillote - featured image

A quick and healthy salmon recipe steamed in parchment with lemon, fresh herbs, and zucchini. Perfect for a light, flavorful dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skinless or skin-on
  • 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced into rounds or half-moons
  • 1 large lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme, or a combination)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons white wine or vegetable broth (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut four sheets of parchment paper, each about 15×15 inches (38×38 cm).
  3. Slice the zucchini and lemon thinly, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
  4. Place zucchini slices in the center of each parchment sheet, fanning them out slightly. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  5. Lay a salmon fillet on top of the zucchini bed. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Scatter chopped fresh herbs evenly over the fish.
  6. Top each fillet with lemon slices.
  7. Optional: Drizzle a tablespoon of white wine or vegetable broth over the fish.
  8. Fold the parchment to seal the packets tightly, crimping the edges all around to form a sealed pouch.
  9. Place the packets on a baking sheet, spacing them out slightly.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the packet puffs up and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  11. Remove from oven and let packets rest for 2 minutes.
  12. Carefully open the packets (watch out for hot steam!) and serve immediately, spooning the zucchini and juices over the top.

Notes

If you don’t have parchment paper, aluminum foil can be used but the steaming effect and flavor may differ. For thicker salmon fillets over 1 inch thick, add 1-2 minutes to cooking time. Packets can be prepped ahead and refrigerated; add 2 extra minutes to baking time if baking cold packets. Use fresh, high-quality salmon for best flavor. Avoid overstuffing packets to ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon herb salmon, en papillote, healthy dinner, zucchini, quick salmon recipe, baked salmon, steamed salmon, gluten-free, low-carb