Christmas Baked Salmon

Introduction

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dish to impress your guests this holiday season, Christmas salmon is an excellent choice. With its vibrant, festive colors and incredible flavor, it’s a delicious main course that feels fancy, but is surprisingly simple to prepare. This stunning recipe perfectly combines tender and flaky salmon with a flavorful topping ideal for Christmas dinner.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Fresh salmon filet

One large filet, approximately 2 pounds

Olive oil

2 tablespoons, for brushing the salmon

Salt and pepper

Season to taste

Honey

2 tablespoons, for a touch of sweetness

Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon, to add a hint of tanginess

Garlic cloves

Two, finely minced

Breadcrumbs

Half a cup, for creating a crispy topping

Fresh parsley

1/4 cup, finely chopped for garnishing

Pomegranate arils

1/3 cup, to add festive color and sweet bursts of flavor

Lemon

Juice from half a lemon

Prep Time

Preparing the Christmas salmon is a quick and easy process. Set aside around 10 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients. Begin by patting the salmon dry and placing it on a lined baking sheet, ensuring it is ready for the flavorful toppings to be added.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking process takes about 20 minutes. First, you’ll bake the salmon until it’s just cooked through and tender. Then, as it comes out of the oven, it’s topped with vibrant garnishes to elevate its festive appearance. The total time required is just 30 minutes, making this dish convenient for even the busiest holiday schedules. The recipe generously serves four, ensuring there’s plenty to go around for family or guests.

When served, this Christmas salmon truly shines, creating a centerpiece that is both beautiful and delicious, perfect for celebrating the holiday spirit around the table.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the salmon

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the salmon fillet on top, skin-side down, and pat it dry with a paper towel. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well to combine into a smooth marinade.

Step 3: Spread the marinade

Brush or pour the marinade evenly over the salmon fillet, ensuring it is well coated.

Step 4: Add the toppings

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the salmon, followed by the chopped pecans and parsley. Press the toppings down lightly to help them stick to the marinade.

Step 5: Bake the salmon

Place the baking sheet with salmon in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon fillet.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Cooking time note

The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet. Thinner fillets may require less time, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.

Make-ahead tip

You can prepare the salmon with the marinade and toppings a few hours in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated, then bake it when you are ready to serve.

Substitutions

If you do not have pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds as a topping. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving suggestions

Serve the salmon with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete holiday meal.

Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve its texture and flavor.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Salmon

Ensure the salmon is fresh and skin-on, as this helps retain moisture. Pat it dry with a paper towel for better seasoning adhesion.

Seasoning the Salmon

Generously season the salmon with a mixture of salt and other desired spices or herbs. Be sure to coat evenly for enhanced flavor.

Using Parchment Paper

Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Cooking at the Right Temperature

Bake the salmon in the oven at the recommended temperature to ensure even cooking while keeping it moist and tender.

Adding a Glaze or Topping

Apply a honey glaze or other toppings like herbs or citrus slices before baking to enhance flavor and presentation.

Resting the Salmon

Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute and maximize tenderness.

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

What thickness should the salmon fillet be?

The ideal thickness is around 1 inch, as it ensures even cooking without drying out.

How do I know if the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reads 145°F on a thermometer.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can season the salmon and refrigerate it for up to a day before cooking.

What sides pair well with baked salmon?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are all excellent accompaniments for salmon.

Is it necessary to use skin-on salmon?

Using skin-on salmon is recommended as it helps lock in moisture and flavor, but skinless can also work if that’s your preference.

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Conclusion

This festive Christmas salmon recipe is a true showstopper for your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it a delightful main course that’s simple yet elegant. Whether paired with classic holiday sides or lighter accompaniments, this dish is sure to impress your guests and make the meal memorable.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Lemon Butter Salmon

Brighten up your next dinner with a refreshing lemon butter salmon. The citrusy flavors perfectly complement tender flaky salmon, ideal for any occasion.

Maple Glazed Salmon

For a sweet yet savory twist, try maple glazed salmon. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup enhances the salmon while caramelizing beautifully during cooking.

Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon

Add a herbaceous crunch to your salmon by baking it with a crust of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables.

Honey Garlic Salmon

Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and savoriness with honey garlic salmon. The sticky glaze marries well with steamed rice or sautéed greens.

Teriyaki Salmon

Add an Asian-inspired touch to your meal with teriyaki salmon. The rich umami sauce works perfectly over a bed of jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Citrus Dill Salmon

Embrace fresh and light flavors with citrus dill salmon. This delightful combination is perfect for a spring or summer meal and can pair well with a crisp salad.

Parchment-Baked Salmon with Veggies

For an easy and healthy option, bake salmon in parchment paper along with your favorite vegetables. It’s a delicate way to lock in flavors and moisture.
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