Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Salmon in Phyllo recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated yet simple meal for guests. It's a beautiful dish, bursting with fresh flavors and surprisingly easy to assemble, even for beginner cooks. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this healthy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 package (8 sheets) phyllo dough, thawed according to package directions
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Assembling the Phyllo Parcels:
- Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface. Brush lightly with melted butter.
- Repeat with another sheet of phyllo, layering and buttering until you have two sheets.
- Place a portion of the salmon fillet (about 1/4 of the total) on one end of the phyllo rectangle. Top with a few lemon slices and a sprinkle of minced garlic and fresh dill.
- Carefully fold the phyllo dough over the salmon, tucking in the sides to create a neat parcel.
- Repeat steps 1-4 with the remaining phyllo sheets and salmon.
Baking and Serving:
- Place the phyllo parcels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy, and the salmon is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillet.
- Serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success:
- Keep phyllo dough moist: Cover unused sheets of phyllo with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Don't overload the parcels: Too much filling will make the phyllo difficult to fold and may cause it to break.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Check for doneness: The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers, into the parcels for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy filling: For a richer flavor, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or herbed goat cheese on the phyllo before adding the salmon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your salmon fillet and the amount of butter used. However, a single serving provides a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, alongside healthy fats from the olive oil. The phyllo adds some carbohydrates. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.
This Salmon in Phyllo recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious food recipes don't have to be complicated. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful homemade cooking experience. Enjoy!