Garlic Butter Baked Salmon En Papillote

Salmon Empapelado al Mojo de Ajo
Servings: 2 Servings

Salmón Empapelado al Mojo de Ajo

Salmón Empapelado al Mojo de Ajo is a simple yet elegant dish where tender salmon fillets are baked in parchment with a garlicky mojo de ajo. The butter, lime zest, cilantro, and a touch of red chili flakes create a bright, savory sauce that steams the fish in its own juices, preserving moisture and maximizing flavor.

Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner, this recipe pairs beautifully with rice or seasonal vegetables.

Total: 20 minutes
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Equipment

  • Chef’s Knife
  • Plastic Cutting Board Set
  • Sheet Pan

Ingredients 

  • 2 tbsp softened butter
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • 5 – 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp red chili flakes, optional
  • 1 lb skinless salmon, cut into 2 even portions

Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a small bowl combine the softened butter, chopped cilantro, lime zest, sliced garlic, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes if using. Mix until you have a smooth garlic-butter paste.
  • Cut two large pieces of parchment paper—one for each fillet—large enough to fold and seal into a packet.
  • Place each salmon portion in the center of a parchment sheet.
  • Divide the garlic butter between the fillets and spread it evenly over the top of each piece.
  • Squeeze the lime juice over the salmon, distributing it evenly.
  • Fold the parchment over each fillet and crimp the edges tightly to seal the packets, creating a steamer pouch.
  • Place the sealed packets on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
  • After 10 minutes, turn off the oven and let the salmon rest inside for another 5–10 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, to finish cooking gently.
  • Carefully remove the packets, open them to release steam, and serve the salmon hot with rice or your choice of vegetables.

Notes

  • Prepare the garlic butter up to 3 days ahead and keep refrigerated.
  • If fillets are thicker than 1 inch, allow the full 10 minutes of resting time in the turned-off oven to ensure even doneness.
  • You can use aluminum foil if you don’t have parchment, though parchment steams more gently.
  • For extra citrus brightness, add thin lime slices on top of the fish before sealing.
  • Serve with sautéed greens or esquites for a complete, balanced meal.

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