Pin it Lemony Dill Salmon en Papillote with Roasted Radishes comes together as the kind of dinner I crave when I need something vibrant yet absolutely fuss-free. Everything bakes in its own packet so there is almost no cleanup and the flavors come out bright and fresh Thanks to the lemony dill drizzle the salmon stays juicy and the radishes turn sweet and mellow
This recipe always reminds me of my first apartment when I wanted to impress friends with almost no effort at all I love how everyone unwraps their own little parchment packet at the table
Ingredients
- Center cut salmon fillets: look for firm moist flesh with vibrant color and avoid fish that smells overly fishy fresher is always better
- Fresh dill fronds: infuse the whole dish with cheerful flavor and aroma choose perky sprigs with no yellowing
- Lemon: thinly sliced to release oils and zest for added zing go for plump lemons with thin skin for more juice
- Olive oil: just a drizzle brings everything together and helps the salmon stay succulent a good extra virgin oil adds depth
- Garlic: adds gentle heat and complexity fresh cloves are ideal for sharpness and aroma
- Radishes: trimmed and halved select firm radishes with bright skin roasting takes away their bite and brings out sweetness
- Sea salt: lifts all the flavors try a flaky variety for the finishing touch
- Freshly ground black pepper: gives gentle warmth peppercorns cracked just before using make a real difference
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Finely chop garlic and dill Set aside so the flavors bloom while you prep the other ingredients
- Prepare the Salmon Packets:
- Lay each salmon fillet in the center of a large sheet of parchment Scatter half of the chopped dill and garlic over the fish Arrange lemon slices directly over and under the salmon for maximum flavor
- Dress the Radishes:
- Toss radish halves with a drizzle of olive oil a pinch of salt and black pepper Place them evenly around but not on top of the salmon in each packet
- Seal the Packets:
- Fold parchment edges up around the fish and radishes crimping tightly to form a sealed pouch Make sure steam cannot escape as this is what cooks the salmon gently
- Bake to Perfection:
- Lay packets seam side up on a baking sheet Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen to eighteen minutes depending on the thickness of the salmon The salmon should flake easily but remain moist and the radishes should be tender
- Let Rest and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the packets rest for three minutes before unsealing This lets the steam finish cooking the fish and prevents burns Open carefully and garnish with the remaining dill and an extra drizzle of olive oil
Pin it I always love sniffing the packet right as I open it The aroma of lemon and dill is so fresh My daughter always asks for extra roasted radishes because she cannot believe how sweet they get
Storage Tips
Leftover salmon keeps best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days If possible store the radishes and salmon separately for optimal texture Reheat gently in a covered dish to avoid drying out the fish
Ingredient Substitutions
Try trout or cod in place of salmon if you have access to super fresh fillets Parsley or tarragon are nice swaps for dill Thinly sliced carrots or turnips make a colorful alternative to radishes
Serving Suggestions
I love piling the steamy salmon onto a bed of fluffy quinoa or farro for a heartier meal Toss a handful of arugula in lemon juice to serve alongside or add some crusty bread to soak up any lemony juices
A Fresh Twist on a Classic
En papillote is a classic French technique but the bright dill and roasted radishes give this dish a fresh and modern spin What surprises most people is how oven steaming keeps the salmon incredibly moist even without a rich sauce
Pin it This fuss-free salmon is perfect for spring or any night when you crave something vibrant and delicious Serve with extra dill and a wedge of lemon for the freshest taste
Recipe FAQs
- → Why use parchment paper for salmon?
Parchment paper traps steam and moisture, resulting in a tender, evenly cooked fish with infused flavors.
- → How do radishes taste when roasted?
Roasted radishes become milder and slightly sweet, losing some of their raw peppery bite.
- → Can I substitute another herb for dill?
Yes, try fresh tarragon, parsley, or chives for different flavor profiles that complement salmon.
- → What is en papillote cooking?
It’s a French method where ingredients are sealed in parchment paper and baked, steaming in their own juices.
- → How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout when cooked through.
- → Can I add vegetables besides radishes?
Yes, thinly sliced zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes can be added for more variety and color.