Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon.

If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet, look no further than this Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon. The combination of roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic spices makes this dish a flavor powerhouse. Plus, cooking it in parchment paper not only seals in moisture but also makes cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen!

Top Reasons to Make Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon.

1. Flavor Explosion: The sweet roasted red peppers paired with sun-dried tomatoes create a rich, savory sauce that elevates the salmon to new heights.
2. Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and this recipe incorporates plenty of vegetables, making it a balanced meal.
3. Easy Cleanup: Cooking in parchment means less mess in the kitchen and you can serve right from the parchment for a rustic presentation.
4. Versatile: This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. It pairs well with various sides, from salads to grains.
5. Time-Saving: With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 jar (16 ounce) roasted red peppers, drained
• 1/2 cup oil packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)
• Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 small potatoes, very thinly sliced
• 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets
• Tzatziki, for serving
• Fresh dill and basil, for serving

Hardware & Gadgets

• Parchment paper: Essential for the cooking method, it creates a sealed packet that locks in flavors.
• Baking sheet: To hold your parchment packets while baking.
• Sharp knife: For slicing potatoes and preparing the salmon.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients before adding to the salmon.

Cook Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon. Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, honey, smashed garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the salmon cook quickly while keeping it moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

On a large piece of parchment paper, lay out the very thinly sliced potatoes, overlapping slightly to create a base for the salmon.

Step 4: Add the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on top of the potato layer. Drizzle a little olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Pour on the Sauce

Generously spoon the roasted red pepper sauce over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 6: Seal the Parchment

Fold the parchment paper over the salmon and potatoes, crimping the edges tightly to create a sealed packet.

Step 7: Bake

Place the parchment packets on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the potatoes are tender.

Step 8: Serve

Carefully open the parchment packets, allowing steam to escape. Serve the salmon hot, topped with fresh dill and basil, alongside tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.

Healthier Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt instead of tzatziki: If you’re looking for a lighter dip option.
• Swap honey for maple syrup: For a vegan alternative that adds sweetness.
• Replace potatoes with zucchini or bell peppers: For a lower-carb option, load up on more vegetables.
• Choose wild-caught salmon: For a cleaner, more sustainable protein source.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Error: Salmon is overcooked.
  Fix: Keep an eye on the salmon during the last few minutes of baking. Check for doneness at 15 minutes.
• Error: Potatoes are not tender.
  Fix: Ensure they are sliced very thinly and consider pre-cooking them for a few minutes before layering.
• Error: Sauce is too thick.
  Fix: Add a splash of water or additional olive oil to thin it out before pouring over the salmon.
• Error: Parchment paper burns.
  Fix: Make sure to keep the packets sealed and avoid exposing them to direct oven elements.

Storage Pro Tips

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon and potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reader Questions

Can I use fresh peppers instead of jarred roasted peppers?

Absolutely! You can roast fresh peppers yourself by charring them over an open flame or in the oven until they are blackened and tender. Just let them cool, peel off the skins, and they will work perfectly in this recipe.

What sides pair well with this salmon dish?

This Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon goes wonderfully with a simple side salad, quinoa, or even some steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy balance.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the roasted red pepper sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The salmon and potatoes can be cooked and portioned out for easy lunches throughout the week. Just prepare the tzatziki fresh when serving.

Because You Liked This

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Hungry for More?

If this Parchment Baked Roasted Red Pepper Salmon has you craving more delicious seafood recipes, stay tuned for our upcoming posts filled with fresh ideas and flavor-packed dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!

Delicious dinners don’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and some parchment paper, you can create a meal that’s not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t forget to share your creations!