Description
This Pesto Salmon in Parchment Paper is a delicious and healthy main dish featuring a tender salmon fillet baked with flavorful spinach pesto, wrapped in parchment to lock in moisture and enhance taste. Perfect for a nutritious dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare and pairs wonderfully with fresh greens or your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pound salmon fillet
 - 1/3 cup spinach pesto, plus more for serving
 
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking sheet, a long strip of parchment paper, kitchen twine, and ensure your pesto sauce is ready.
 - Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet in the center of the parchment paper laid out on the baking sheet.
 - Add Pesto: Pour 1/3 cup of spinach pesto over the salmon, adjusting the amount based on the fillet size. Spread the pesto evenly over the entire surface of the salmon for consistent flavor.
 - Wrap in Parchment: Fold the edges of the parchment paper over the salmon to create a sealed packet. Use kitchen twine to securely tie the parchment, ensuring the salmon cooks in its own juices.
 - Bake: Place the baking sheet with the wrapped salmon into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked all the way through and flakes easily with a fork.
 - Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon packet from the oven and allow it to rest inside the parchment paper for 5 to 10 minutes. After resting, carefully unwrap and slice the salmon. Serve with extra pesto and your preferred side dishes or atop a fresh green salad.
 
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of pesto depending on your taste preferences and the size of the salmon fillet.
 - Resting the salmon inside the parchment paper helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.
 - Ensure the parchment paper is properly sealed to lock in steam for perfectly cooked salmon.
 - This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal.
 
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 - Cook Time: 35 to 45 minutes
 - Category: Main Dishes
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American