Easy and Healthy Parchment Salmon with Spinach and Ginger-Garlic Sauce: A Quick 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

This simple, healthy parchment-baked salmon with spinach and a flavorful ginger-garlic sauce is the perfect quick meal for busy nights. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a nutritious, gluten-free, low-carb, and low-fat dinner option.

Salmon is one of my go-to options for healthy, light dinners. It’s super easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and packed with flavor. I love this parchment salmon recipe because it requires minimal ingredients, most of which I usually have on hand. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner, taking no more than 20 minutes from start to finish!

I often keep frozen salmon fillets in my freezer, so it’s as simple as pulling them out in the morning and preparing them in the evening. You can also switch up the type of fish used if you prefer something other than salmon—just keep in mind that larger fillets might need more time to bake (about 20-30 minutes).

This recipe is flexible when it comes to flavoring your fish. In this version, I’ve used a savory ginger-garlic sauce, but feel free to try different flavors such as lemon, dill, or even a splash of white wine! For the side, I paired the salmon with brown rice, but baked potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad would work wonderfully too.

The Nutritional Power of Salmon

Salmon is an incredible source of nutrients. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, amino acids, and essential vitamins like B12, D, and minerals such as potassium and selenium. These nutrients help manage inflammation, support brain function, and protect your skin and eyes. Salmon even has benefits for joint and cardiovascular health, aids in improving sleep and metabolism, and overall boosts your mood and energy!

When buying salmon, opt for wild-caught Alaskan salmon, which is not only more sustainable but also less likely to be contaminated compared to farmed salmon. Make sure to purchase it from a trusted source for fresh fish.

Why Parchment?

Baking salmon in parchment paper is a great method for preserving moisture and nutrients. The salmon cooks in its own juices, ensuring a tender texture while keeping all the healthy fats intact. Plus, no cleanup is necessary afterward—just toss the parchment!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Ginger-Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger

  • 2 teaspoons fresh grated garlic

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)

  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

  • 2 teaspoons lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 1/3 cup vegetable broth

  • 1 cup chopped spinach (or more greens of your choice)

• For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (around 4.5 oz each)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds (for garnish)

• Optional sides:

  • Brown rice (or your preferred side)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

2. If using rice, start cooking it according to package instructions.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the ginger-garlic sauce.

4. Take two sheets of parchment paper (each around 14 inches wide) and fold them in half. Unfold them, then place half of the spinach on one side of the crease.

5. Place the salmon fillets on top of the spinach. Drizzle with the ginger-garlic sauce and season with salt and pepper.

6. Fold the parchment paper over the salmon to create an airtight packet.

7. Bake for 12 minutes for medium-cooked salmon. If you prefer it more done, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

8. Unwrap the salmon and sprinkle with black sesame seeds before serving.

9. Serve with your choice of side dish, such as brown rice or a green salad. Enjoy!

This dish is also perfect for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 88 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 5g

• Sodium: 743mg

• Potassium: 577mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 1g

• Vitamin A: 9460 IU

• Vitamin C: 30.5 mg

• Calcium: 124mg

• Iron: 3.2 mg

This easy parchment salmon recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy a fast, healthy meal that the whole family will love!

What’s your favorite way to prepare salmon? Let me know in the comments!

Happy Cooking!
Elena