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

Scale

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

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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.