Description
Craving a light, vibrant meal that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner? The Salmon Veggie Packets recipe is your answer! This dish features tender salmon fillets baked with crisp yellow peppers and sugar snap peas in a zesty white wine and lemon marinade, all sealed in parchment packets for easy cleanup
Ingredients
To make Salmon Veggie Packets for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this wholesome dish:
- White Wine (2 tbsp, for veggies): Adds a subtle, tangy depth.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp, for veggies): Provides richness and helps cook the veggies.
- Salt (¼ tsp, for veggies): Enhances the vegetables’ flavors.
- Pepper (¼ tsp, for veggies): Adds a mild kick.
- Sweet Yellow Peppers (2 medium, julienned): Bring sweet, colorful crunch.
- Fresh Sugar Snap Peas (2 cups, trimmed): Add crisp, green texture.
- White Wine (2 tbsp, for salmon): Infuses the fish with tangy flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp, for salmon): Keeps the salmon moist.
- Grated Lemon Zest (1 tbsp): Provides bright, citrusy aroma.
- Salt (½ tsp, for salmon): Enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
- Pepper (¼ tsp, for salmon): Adds a subtle kick.
- Salmon Fillets (4, 6 oz each): Flaky, nutrient-rich protein that’s the star of the dish.
- Medium Lemon (1, halved): Fresh juice for a final zesty touch.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Salmon: Swap with cod, haddock, or tilapia; adjust cooking time based on thickness.
- Yellow Peppers: Use red bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for variety.
- Sugar Snap Peas: Replace with green beans, broccoli florets, or sliced carrots.
- White Wine: Substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option.
- Lemon Zest: Use orange or lime zest for a different citrus note.
- Add-Ons: Include sliced garlic, cherry tomatoes, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the packets.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3s and protein, while the peppers and snap peas offer fiber, vitamins, and vibrant color. The white wine and lemon add bright, tangy flavors, making this a balanced, nutrient-rich meal perfect for healthy eating.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Packets and Veggies
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cut four 18×15-inch pieces of parchment paper or heavy-duty foil; fold each crosswise in half to form a crease, then unfold.
- In a large bowl, mix 2 tbsp white wine, 1 tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper.
- Add 2 julienned sweet yellow peppers and 2 cups trimmed sugar snap peas; toss to coat.
Tip: Julienne peppers into thin strips for even cooking, and trim snap peas by removing the stringy ends.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp white wine, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp grated lemon zest, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper until well combined.
Tip: Grate only the outer yellow part of the lemon peel to avoid bitter pith, and whisk the marinade thoroughly.
Step 3: Assemble the Packets
- Lay one salmon fillet (6 oz) on one side of each parchment or foil sheet, near the crease.
- Drizzle each fillet with 2 tsp of the salmon marinade (about half the mixture, divided evenly).
- Top each fillet with one-fourth of the vegetable mixture (about ¾ cup per packet).
- Fold the parchment or foil over the fish and veggies; fold the open edges twice to seal tightly, creating a packet. Repeat for all 4 packets.
Tip: Fold edges securely to trap steam, ensuring moist salmon and tender veggies.
Step 4: Bake the Packets
- Place packets on one or two baking sheets.
- Bake at 400°F for 12–16 minutes, until the salmon just begins to flake easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F).
- Open packets carefully to release steam.
Tip: Check doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork; avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer each packet to a plate or open and slide contents onto plates.
- Squeeze juice from 1 halved medium lemon over the vegetables in each serving.
- Serve immediately.
Tip: Serve hot to enjoy the tender salmon and vibrant veggies at their best, with the fresh lemon juice adding a bright finish.