Description
This Baked Salmon and Leek Parcel recipe offers an easy and delicious meal that combines tender salmon fillets with sweet, buttery leeks for a comforting and sophisticated dish. With minimal effort, these parcels deliver restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 250g leeks (about 3 small ones), thinly sliced
- 85g mascarpone
- 1 tablespoon chopped dill, plus 1 additional teaspoon for garnish
- 2 skinless salmon fillets (about 120g each)
- Grated zest of ¼ lemon, plus a good squeeze of juice
- 2–3 teaspoons capers, rinsed
- Wilted spinach to serve (optional)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil for parcels
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas mark 6. Cut two large pieces of parchment paper or aluminum foil, approximately 30cm square each.
- Clean the leeks thoroughly by slicing lengthwise and rinsing under cold water to remove any grit. Then slice them thinly into half-moons.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced leeks, mascarpone, 1 tablespoon of chopped dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the mascarpone coats the leeks evenly.
- Place half of the leek mixture in the center of each parchment paper square, creating a bed for the salmon.
- Season each salmon fillet with salt and pepper, then place on top of the leek mixture.
- Squeeze a little lemon juice over each fillet and scatter the capers evenly on top.
- To seal each parcel, bring the opposite sides of the parchment paper together over the salmon and fold them down to create a seam. Then twist the ends tightly to seal completely, creating a secure pouch. The parcel should be sealed well but with some room inside for steam to circulate.
- Place the parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. The parcels should puff up as they cook.
- To check doneness without opening the parcels, press gently on the top – the salmon should feel firm but with a slight give, indicating it’s cooked but still moist.
- Carefully transfer each parcel to individual serving plates. Allow diners to open their own parcels at the table for a wonderful aromatic experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or vermouth to each parcel before sealing.
- Parchment creates a more elegant presentation, while foil conducts heat better for a slightly faster cook.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 parcel
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 29
- Cholesterol: 0