Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets

Every once in a while, I stumble upon a dish that perfectly captures the essence of a delightful dinner, and Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets is one of those gems. This recipe is not just about combining ingredients; it’s about creating a multi-sensory experience that whisks you away to the heart of a spring evening. Picture the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen, the sound of sizzling salmon, and the anticipation of a meal that promises both flavor and ease. I remember the first time I prepared this dish for my family. It was a hectic weeknight, and I needed something quick yet impressive. As the salmon roasted in its little parchment packets, I felt a sense of peace knowing dinner was practically handled. It’s these moments that remind me why I love cooking.

Ingredients Overview for Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets

When it comes to the ingredients for Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets, each one plays a vital role in crafting a delightful dish. The harmony of salmon, couscous, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that’s not only flavorful but also nutritious. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the butter and salmon, making it a symphony of tastes in every bite.

• 2 cups cooked couscous – This fluffy grain serves as the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the dish while providing a hearty element.
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted – Essential for richness and moisture, the melted butter brings all the flavors together.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adding a fragrant kick, garlic enhances the overall taste with its robust flavor.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced – These add a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch to the dish.
• ¼ cup chopped herbs – A mixture of parsley, basil, chives, rosemary or thyme brings freshness and vibrancy to each bite.
• 4 raw salmon filets – The star of the dish, these filets are packed with healthy fats and protein, making them both nutritious and delicious.
• Kosher salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning, they bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 pound asparagus spears – These add color and a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the salmon.
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced – Adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the richness of the butter and salmon.

How to Make Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets

Making Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets is a straightforward process that anyone can master. As we go through the steps, you’ll see just how easy it is to create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Grab four sheets of parchment paper and lay them out on your counter. This is where the magic happens! If your asparagus spears are thicker than usual, consider cutting them in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions. This mixture will infuse the salmon with incredible flavor.
3. Season the salmon filets generously with kosher salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of the fish and complements the butter.
4. Now, let’s create the parchment packets. Take one sheet of parchment paper (about 8×12 inches) and fold it in half. Open it back up to create a crease in the middle.
5. In the center of the parchment, place ½ cup of cooked couscous. Add a few spears of asparagus on top, drizzling them lightly with olive oil and seasoning with more salt and pepper.
6. Next, place a seasoned salmon filet on top of the couscous and asparagus. Drizzle about a tablespoon of the garlic herb butter over the fish, and add a slice or two of lemon on top for that zesty kick.
7. Fold the parchment over the filling, pinching it tightly to seal and create a packet. Make sure it’s sealed well to trap all those wonderful flavors inside.
8. Repeat the process for the remaining ingredients, drizzling extra butter on top of each packet if desired. Place all the packets on a baking sheet.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender yet still vibrant in color.
10. Carefully remove the packets from the oven. Take caution when opening them; the steam inside is hot! Serve the packets directly on plates for a charming presentation, allowing everyone to enjoy the aromas as they open their meal.

Helpful Hints

Cooking is a journey of learning, and Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets offers plenty of opportunities to enhance your culinary skills. Here are some helpful tips to make your cooking experience even more enjoyable.

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled packets before cooking. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Adding Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Herb Infusions: Infuse your butter with herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can also grill these packets instead of roasting them in the oven.

What Goes Well With This Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad filled with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers makes a refreshing side dish that complements the flavors of the salmon.
• Steamed Broccoli: The crunch of steamed broccoli adds a wonderful texture and balances the richness of the butter.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs can also be a great option, soaking up the juices from the salmon.
• Light White Wine: For those who enjoy a drink with dinner, a light white wine enhances the taste of the salmon without overpowering it.
• Outdoor Gatherings: This dish is perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings, where you can impress your guests with minimal effort.
• Vegetable Skewers: Grilled vegetable skewers with a mix of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini can elevate the meal with vibrant colors and flavors.

FAQ

Conclusion

Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets is truly a celebration of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. It combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of vegetables in a way that’s both simple and elegant. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without the fuss. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets

The ultimate comfort food, Herb Butter Salmon Couscous Parchment Packets combines tender salmon, fluffy couscous, and fresh veggies, all wrapped up in parchment for a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner. It's a delightful dish that will impress everyone at your table!

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked couscous
• 6 tablespoons butter melted
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 green onions thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped herbs like parsley, basil, chives, rosemary or thyme
• 4 raw salmon filets
• kosher salt
• 1 pound asparagus spears woody ends cut off
• 1 lemon thinly sliced

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Grab four sheets of parchment paper and lay them out on your counter. This is where the magic happens! If your asparagus spears are thicker than usual, consider cutting them in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions. This mixture will infuse the salmon with incredible flavor.
3. Season the salmon filets generously with kosher salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of the fish and complements the butter.
4. Now, let’s create the parchment packets. Take one sheet of parchment paper (about 8x12 inches) and fold it in half. Open it back up to create a crease in the middle.
5. In the center of the parchment, place ½ cup of cooked couscous. Add a few spears of asparagus on top, drizzling them lightly with olive oil and seasoning with more salt and pepper.
6. Next, place a seasoned salmon filet on top of the couscous and asparagus. Drizzle about a tablespoon of the garlic herb butter over the fish, and add a slice or two of lemon on top for that zesty kick.
7. Fold the parchment over the filling, pinching it tightly to seal and create a packet. Make sure it’s sealed well to trap all those wonderful flavors inside.
8. Repeat the process for the remaining ingredients, drizzling extra butter on top of each packet if desired. Place all the packets on a baking sheet.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender yet still vibrant in color.
10. Carefully remove the packets from the oven. Take caution when opening them; the steam inside is hot! Serve the packets directly on plates for a charming presentation, allowing everyone to enjoy the aromas as they open their meal.

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled packets before cooking. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Adding Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Herb Infusions: Infuse your butter with herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can also grill these packets instead of roasting them in the oven.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.