Craving a healthy yet incredibly satisfying dinner that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further than these delightful filo pastry salmon parcels! This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, impressing both family and friends with minimal effort. These elegant little packages are bursting with flavor, combining the delicate flakiness of filo pastry with the richness of salmon and a medley of vibrant vegetables. Prepare for a culinary adventure that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 4 equal portions
- 1 package (8 sheets) filo pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
Prepare the vegetables: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and red onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the parcels: Lay out a sheet of filo pastry. Brush lightly with olive oil. Top with a quarter of the salmon fillet and a quarter of the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). Fold the filo pastry over the filling to create a parcel; you can tuck in the sides for a neat finish. Repeat with the remaining filo pastry sheets and ingredients.
Bake to perfection: Place the parcels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filo pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the salmon is cooked through.
Serve and enjoy: Serve these delicious filo pastry salmon parcels immediately. They're wonderful on their own or with a side of simple green salad or roasted vegetables. This recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success:
- Keep filo pastry moist: Cover filo pastry sheets with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you assemble the parcels.
- Don't overfill: Overfilling the parcels can make them difficult to fold and may cause them to burst during baking.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of your favorite curry powder to the vegetable mixture for a flavorful twist.
- Creamy filling: Incorporate a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream into the vegetable mixture for a richer filling.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This healthy and easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer. The versatility of this dish allows you to adapt it to your own tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal and savor every bite!