This oven-baked Parma ham-wrapped salmon is a quick and delicious dish, perfect for busy midweek dinners or even a more refined dinner party. The salty crispiness of the Parma ham beautifully complements the soft, tender salmon inside, offering a balanced and flavorful meal rich in Omega-3 and essential nutrients.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients (for four people)
- 600 g (21 oz) salmon fillets (4 fillets)
- 4-8 slices of Parma ham
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Thyme Oil
In a small bowl, combine the fresh thyme leaves with olive oil. Lightly bruise the leaves to release their oils using a pestle and mortar or the back of a spoon—season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prep the Salmon and Parma Ham
If your salmon fillets have skin, carefully remove them using a sharp knife. Lay two slices of Parma ham flat on a cutting board with slightly overlapping edges. Brush the salmon fillets with half of the thyme oil on all sides and place them in the middle of the Parma ham slices.
Step 4: Wrap the Salmon
Carefully wrap the Parma ham around the salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully enclosed. Place the wrapped salmon on a lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the Parma ham becomes crispy. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 60°C (140°F).
Step 6: Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or tomatoes.
Tips and Tricks
- For an even crispier ham: Turn on the grill (broiler) for the last 2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Salmon skin: Removing the skin ensures a more even texture and flavor with the Parma ham.
- Alternative herbs: If you’re out of thyme, rosemary or oregano are substitutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted asparagus and quick-roasted tomatoes for a complete meal. This dish can also be paired with a side of mashed potatoes or a warm potato salad with a light dressing.
Wine Matching
Pair this Parma Ham-wrapped salmon with a light white wine that complements the fish’s richness and the ham’s crispiness. Try an unoaked Bulgarian Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc for a fresh, acidic balance. A light Pinot Grigio works equally well.
Storage Suggestions
This dish is best served fresh, as reheating can dry out the salmon and cause the Parma ham to lose its crispness. However, you can prepare the salmon and wrap it in Parma ham for up to 8 hours before baking, storing it in the fridge until it is ready to cook.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 336 kcal
- Protein: 37g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Omega-3 fatty acids: High
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the Parma ham is free from added gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Completely dairy-free and perfect for lactose-intolerant individuals.
About Parma Ham Wrapped Salmon
This dish combines the tenderness of salmon, which is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, with the salty, crisp flavors of Parma ham. Originally from Italy, Parma ham, or Prosciutto di Parma, offers an elegant and savory element to the otherwise light fish. This method of cooking salmon is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create an exquisite meal.
Cultural Context
Parma ham, a traditional Italian dry-cured ham, has long been a staple in European cuisines. Coupling it with salmon is a relatively modern twist, reflecting the fusion of Mediterranean flavors with the northern European love for oily fish like salmon. This dish has become increasingly popular for its ease of preparation and gourmet appearance, making it a dinner favorite in many homes.
Enjoy this elegant and easy Parma Ham Wrapped Salmon with family or guests for a healthy, delicious meal that feels like a special occasion.
