Salmon en Papillote with Citrus

Name: Salmon en Papillote with Citrus
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; 1 orange, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh dill sprigs; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love preparing Salmon en Papillote with Citrus. The method of cooking salmon in parchment paper allows the fish to steam gently while infusing it with bright citrus flavors. This dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of fresh herbs, citrus slices, and salmon enveloped in parchment ensures a moist and flavorful fillet every time. Let me share the delightful experience of making and enjoying this dish with you!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:55:14.827Z

One summer evening, I decided to try my hand at Salmon en Papillote with Citrus, inspired by a cooking class I attended. I loved how the aromas of lemon, orange, and dill filled my kitchen as I folded the parchment, creating little packets of flavor. The end result was not only a delicious main dish but also an impressive centerpiece for my dinner table.

To ensure perfect doneness of the salmon, I always check it after 15 minutes of baking. Depending on the thickness of the fillet, occasionally, I will let it cook for an additional few minutes. This simple method guarantees flaky, tender salmon every time and keeps the kitchen mess-free!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of citrus enhances the natural flavors of salmon
Elegant presentation is perfect for entertaining guests
Quick and healthy dinner option for busy weeknights

      

Mastering the Parchment Technique

Cooking en papillote can seem intimidating at first, but it’s essential to create a proper seal to trap all the flavorful steam. Make sure to crimp the edges of the parchment tightly, as this ensures that the moisture stays locked in, which keeps the salmon from drying out. If you see any gaps, you may need to fold over the edges again to avoid steam escaping during baking.

The parchment paper should hold up well in the oven, but using a high-quality option that can withstand high temperatures is key. Avoid using waxed paper, as it can melt or impart undesirable flavors. When placed directly on a baking sheet, the parchment can also promote even cooking, providing the fish with a gentle heat that yields perfect results.

Flavoring Your Salmon

Using fresh citrus enhances not only the flavor but also the aroma of salmon as it cooks. I recommend using a mix of lemon and orange for a balanced brightness; their acidity can cut through the richness of the fish. You can easily substitute the citrus with other fruits like lime or grapefruit for a different twist, depending on your taste preferences.

Incorporating herbs like dill is also a crucial element to this dish. Fresh dill pairs beautifully with salmon, offering aromatic notes that elevate the dish. If you're out of fresh dill, dried herbs can work in a pinch—just remember to use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a stunning and flavorful salmon dish:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1 orange, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh dill sprigs
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Salmon en Papillote:

Prepare the Parchment

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of parchment paper, about 12x16 inches each, and fold each in half lengthwise. Unfold and place each piece on a baking sheet.

Assemble Ingredients

On one side of each parchment, place a salmon fillet. Drizzle olive oil over each piece, then add minced garlic, lemon and orange slices, and a few sprigs of dill. Season with salt and pepper.

Seal the Packets

Fold the parchment over the salmon and crimp the edges tightly to seal. This will create a steamy cooking environment for the salmon.

Bake

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Carefully open the parchment packets to release steam. Serve directly in the parchment for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra hint of flavor, try adding different herbs such as thyme or rosemary. You can also substitute the citrus fruits with seasonal vegetables.

Making It Ahead

One of the great benefits of this recipe is the ease of preparation. You can assemble the parchment packets a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just keep in mind that if you're using very thick salmon fillets, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, store the opened packets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, avoid using the microwave if possible; instead, rewarm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes to maintain the moisture and freshness of the fish.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation, I like to serve the salmon directly in its parchment paper on individual plates. This not only looks elegant but also allows your guests to enjoy the aromatic steam as they open their packets. Consider garnishing with additional fresh dill or citrus zest to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Pair this salmon en papillote with a simple side dish, such as steamed asparagus or a light quinoa salad, to keep the meal healthy and satisfying. The citrus notes in the salmon also complement a glass of white wine, particularly a Sauvignon Blanc, further enhancing the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ What can I serve with Salmon en Papillote?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I make these packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the packets ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to experiment with vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. You can also add different citrus, like lime or grapefruit.