There is something truly magical about this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe that makes it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and sweet orange slices creates an irresistible balance of flavors that brighten up the tender, flaky salmon. It’s simple enough to prepare yet impressive enough to feel special, making it an absolute must-try for festive dinners or any time you want to impress your loved ones with a delightful and healthy seafood dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first and most exciting step in bringing this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe to life. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s enhancing flavor, adding freshness, or contributing to the beautiful presentation that will wow your guests.
- 1.5 lbs (700g) salmon fillet, skin-on: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best texture and taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the herbs stick to the salmon.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth into the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Offers a woody, fragrant note that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Provides subtle earthiness to balance citrus flavors.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brings a bright burst of citrus oils for extra freshness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Tenderizes the fish slightly and adds tangy brightness.
- 1 orange, thinly sliced: Adds a sweet, juicy layer and gorgeous color on top.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a touch of green and a hint of herbaceous freshness at the end.
How to Make Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and retains its moisture. Meanwhile, prepare a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil to serve as a cozy “packet” that will lock in all the delicious flavors and create a steamy environment for the fish.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on your parchment or foil. Drizzle the olive oil generously over the flesh. Now comes the fun part: rub the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice all over the surface. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and pepper evenly – this simple seasoning will elevate every bite.
Step 3: Add Orange Slices
Gently lay the thin orange slices on top of the salmon. These slices not only infuse a subtle citrus sweetness but also give the dish a stunning, festive look that’ll brighten your Christmas table. They’ll also keep the fish moist and add a unique aroma as they bake along.
Step 4: Seal the Packet
Fold the parchment paper or foil carefully over the salmon to create a sealed packet. This will trap steam and all those beautiful flavors inside, ensuring the salmon cooks perfectly tender and juicy. The sealed packet also makes for an easy cleanup, which is a holiday bonus!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the packet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and still feels moist inside. This method of cooking is foolproof and ensures the fish remains tender without drying out.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once your salmon is out of the oven, carefully open the packet to reveal those vibrant orange slices and fragrant herbs. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve it warm and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight!
How to Serve Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but for an extra holiday sparkle, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of crushed pistachios or toasted almonds can also add a delightful crunch and festive flair.
Side Dishes
Pair this salmon with simple, fresh sides that complement its bright flavors. Roasted baby potatoes tossed with garlic and herbs, a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or buttery sautéed green beans all make fantastic companions. These dishes enhance the meal without overpowering the beautiful Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a truly festive touch, serve the salmon directly on a wooden cutting board garnished with lemon and orange wedges. Alternatively, place individual portions atop a bed of wild rice or couscous dotted with dried cranberries and toasted nuts for a colorful, seasonal plate. Presentation is key to elevating this simple yet elegant dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salmon sealed well to retain its moisture and prevent the flavors from mixing with other foods. Reheat gently to keep the fish from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon if needed, but it’s best to consume it fresh for the best texture and flavor. If freezing is necessary, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) covered with foil to keep it moist. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can quickly dry out delicate fish. Just a few minutes will suffice to bring the salmon back to warm-and-ready status.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps maintain an even texture and ensures your seasonings penetrate the fish nicely.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme?
Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but use them sparingly since they are more concentrated. About one-third the amount of fresh herbs is a good rule of thumb to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I add other citrus fruits instead of orange?
Yes, blood oranges, grapefruit, or even thin lemon slices can be used. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment based on what’s in season or your personal preference.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper or foil?
Using parchment or foil to create a sealed packet traps moisture and flavor, leading to a perfectly tender salmon. You can bake uncovered, but the fish may dry out faster and lose some of its infused aromas.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout when done. Cooking times will vary slightly depending on thickness, but 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F usually results in perfectly cooked fish.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is truly a treasure for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to serve something special that’s both impressive and effortless. Its blend of fresh herbs and citrus brings brightness and warmth to the table, making every bite unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try this and create your own festive memories with family and friends!
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Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A festive and flavorful Christmas Baked Salmon recipe featuring fresh herbs, citrus, and garlic, baked to tender perfection in a sealed parchment packet. This elegant and healthy main dish serves 4 and is perfect for holiday gatherings or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) salmon fillet, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a large piece of parchment paper or foil laid over a baking sheet, ready for seasoning.
- Season Fillet: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then evenly rub the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice onto the fish. Season with salt and pepper according to taste to build layers of flavor.
- Add Citrus Slices: Arrange thin slices of orange on top of the salmon to infuse citrus aroma and add a beautiful presentation.
- Create Packet: Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon to form a sealed packet, which traps steam and helps the fish stay moist during baking.
- Bake Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the salmon for 20-25 minutes, or until it flakes easily when tested with a fork, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Serve: Carefully remove from oven, open the packet, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve the baked salmon warm for a delightful holiday meal.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs and citrus for the best flavor and aroma.
- Do not overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- The parchment packet cooking method helps retain juices and infuses flavors.
- Adjust seasoning to taste but be mindful of salt especially if serving with salty sides.
- Can be served with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
