Keto Baked Salmon & Leek Parcels | Low-Carb Gourmet Meal

Keto Baked Salmon & Leek Parcels: A Deliciously Simple Low-Carb Meal

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and keto-friendly dinner that feels gourmet, then you’re in for a treat with this Keto Baked Salmon & Leek Parcel recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to prepare but impresses everyone at the table with its elegant presentation and incredible flavor.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s perfect for those busy weekdays when you want something healthy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of tender salmon, fragrant leeks, and buttery, herby goodness makes it an absolute favorite in my household.

Let’s dive in and create this low-carb masterpiece together!

Ingredients

For the Salmon & Leek Parcels (Serves 4):

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Half a teaspoon of dried thyme or one teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 sheets of parchment paper (or aluminum foil)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A drizzle of lemon juice

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking of the salmon parcels.

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Step 2: Prepare the Leeks

1. In a skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced leeks and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then set aside.

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Step 3: Assemble the Parcels

1. Lay out 4 sheets of parchment paper or foil, each large enough to fold into a sealed parcel.
2. In the center of each sheet, place a generous scoop of the cooked leeks.
3. Lay a salmon fillet on top of the leeks, skin-side down.
4. Sprinkle each fillet with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with 1-2 slices of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

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Step 4: Seal the Parcels

1. Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon and leeks, crimping the edges tightly to create a sealed packet. This traps the steam inside and ensures moist, tender salmon.

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Step 5: Bake the Parcels

1. Place the parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes.
2. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Carefully open the parcels (watch out for the steam!) and serve directly on a plate. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice for added brightness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 salmon parcel
• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 3g

Note: Depending on the particular ingredients used, nutritional values may change.

Why This Recipe is Keto-Friendly

1. Low-Carb Ingredients: Leeks add a subtle sweetness without adding too many carbs.
2. Healthy Fats: Salmon and butter provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and satisfying fats.
3. Protein-Rich: Each parcel delivers a significant amount of protein to support muscle health and satiety.

Tips for Perfect Keto Baked Salmon & Leek Parcels

1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon makes a big difference in flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works too—just thaw it thoroughly.
2. Don’t Overcook: To keep the salmon moist, check it at the 18-minute mark.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Swap thyme for dill, parsley, or rosemary to switch up the flavor profile.
4. Use Parchment Paper: This keeps the salmon moist and prevents sticking. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze!

Nutritional Benefits

• Rich in Omega-3s: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Loaded with Antioxidants: Leeks are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting immune health.
• Low-Carb Goodness: With just 3g net carbs per serving, this dish fits seamlessly into a keto diet.

Variations to Try

1. Add Vegetables: Include thin slices of zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
2. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
3. Cheesy Option: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before sealing the parcels.
4. Herb Infusion: Swap olive oil for basil-infused or garlic-infused olive oil for extra depth.

Common FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The packages can be put together and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, pop them in the oven directly—just add 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. What other fish can I use?

You can substitute salmon with cod, trout, or halibut. Simply modify the cooking time according to the fish's thickness.

3. Can I cook this without parchment paper?

Absolutely! Foil works just as well. If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, use a covered baking dish instead.

4. How do I store leftovers?

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to two days if you store them in an airtight container. To prevent the fish from drying out, reheat it slowly in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new favorite Keto Baked Salmon & Leek Parcel recipe! It’s light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner for the family or a romantic meal for two, this dish checks all the boxes.

Feel free to get creative with the herbs and vegetables to make this dish your own. And don’t forget to let me know how it turned out for you in the comments or tag me in your culinary creations!

Happy cooking, and as always, stay keto! 🌟