If you’re looking for the perfect centerpiece to brighten up your holiday table, this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture a beautifully baked salmon fillet infused with fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and a hint of garlic, all wrapped in a foil packet to lock in moisture and flavor. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, making it ideal for festive gatherings or cozy dinners alike. The blend of rosemary, thyme, and lemon creates a vibrant aroma that fills the kitchen, promising a deliciously tender and flaky salmon that will charm every palate at your celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet each plays an essential role in creating the luscious flavor and perfect texture of the Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe. With fresh herbs, citrus, and quality salmon, you’ll have a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- 1.5 lbs (700g) salmon fillet, skin-on: Choose a fresh, firm fillet for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the herbs and spices adhere to the salmon.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a subtle warmth and depth to the fillet.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Offers a piney, aromatic essence that pairs beautifully with fish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Brings a delicate earthiness that balances the citrus notes.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus fragrance.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Adds brightness and acidity to cut through the richness of the salmon.
- 1 orange, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a festive pop of color on top.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a crisp, fresh finish that looks lovely on the plate.
How to Make Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, place your salmon fillet skin-side down on a large sheet of parchment paper or foil laid on a baking sheet. This will be your cooking pouch, which helps retain all the flavors and moisture during baking.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Drizzle the olive oil generously over the salmon to keep it moist and juicy. Then, gently rub the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice all over the fillet. Don’t forget a good sprinkle of salt and pepper—this simple seasoning is what brings out the salmon’s natural deliciousness.
Step 3: Add the Orange Slices
Neatly arrange the thin orange slices on top of the salmon. These not only add a lovely citrus sweetness but also make the dish look elegant and festive, perfect for the Christmas season.
Step 4: Seal and Bake
Fold the parchment or foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet, making sure it’s well closed so the steam can build up inside. Pop the packet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork—a sign that it’s perfectly cooked through but still tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, carefully open the foil packet — be mindful of the escaping steam. Garnish the beautifully cooked salmon with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and an herbaceous finish. Serve immediately while it’s warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
How to Serve Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch for this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe, adding a bright, herbaceous note and a splash of green that pops against the golden salmon and orange slices. You might also consider a few lemon wedges on the side for extra zest, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with simple yet flavorful sides like garlic roasted potatoes, herbed quinoa, or a crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus or green beans bring in vibrant color and a fresh bite, rounding out the festive meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, serve the salmon directly in its parchment packet so guests can enjoy the unveiling moment. Alternatively, arrange the fillet on a large platter, surrounding it with extra citrus slices and sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a rustic, elegant presentation that feels truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftovers of this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the flavors intact, try to include some of the lemon and herbs with the salmon when storing.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat baked salmon is gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) wrapped loosely in foil to prevent drying out. Heat until just warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, so it stays tender and flavorful. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works well as long as you thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture and flavor when baking.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried?
Dry herbs can be used in a pinch, but use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated. The fresh herbs, however, really make a difference in this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe’s bright flavor.
Is it possible to cook this salmon without foil or parchment?
You can bake the salmon uncovered in a baking dish, but it will cook faster and may dry out more. Covering it helps keep it juicy while infusing it with the citrus and herbs.
Can I add other flavors like mustard or honey?
Definitely! A dollop of Dijon mustard or a drizzle of honey before baking can add interesting layers of flavor, complementing the herbs and citrus perfectly.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink color throughout. Overcooking will make it dry, so keep an eye on the timing for that perfect tender texture.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is one of those magical dishes that’s stunningly simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it a standout for any holiday feast. The blend of fresh herbs and citrus elevates the salmon so beautifully, it’s sure to become a new favorite you’ll reach for long after the season ends. Give it a try, and enjoy the kind of comfort and celebration that great food brings to the table.
Print
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: Low Fat
Description
This Christmas Baked Salmon recipe features a flavorful salmon fillet infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus. Baked in a sealed parchment packet with orange slices, it locks in moisture and imparts a delicate, festive aroma. Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday dinners, this dish serves four and delivers tender, flaky salmon with a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish and Topping
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated for baking the salmon.
- Prepare the Salmon Base: Place the salmon fillet, skin-on, on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil laid on a baking sheet, which will help in creating a sealed packet for cooking.
- Season the Salmon: Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon. Then evenly rub the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice all over the fillet. Season the fillet thoroughly with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Add Orange Slices: Lay the thinly sliced orange pieces on top of the seasoned salmon to add citrus aroma and flavor as it bakes.
- Create a Packet: Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon to form a sealed packet, which will lock in moisture and enhance the flavors while baking.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the sealed packet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the salmon packet from the oven. Carefully open it to avoid steam burns, then garnish the cooked salmon with fresh parsley. Serve the salmon warm for a festive meal.
Notes
- Ensure the salmon is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet.
- For a more intense citrus flavor, you can add a splash of orange juice before baking.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and a gentler cooking method; foil can be used for a crisper texture on the skin.
