The Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is a wonderfully festive and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of the holidays right to your dinner table. This luscious salmon fillet, infused with fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme, tangy lemon zest and juice, and brightened with sweet orange slices, creates a feast that is both elegant and comforting. Perfectly moist and tender after baking in a sealed packet, this recipe makes holiday entertaining feel effortless while delivering impressive taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is sure to become a beloved seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and a gorgeous presentation, all without requiring complicated preparations.
- Salmon fillet (1.5 lbs, skin-on): Opt for a fresh, high-quality cut with the skin on to keep the fish moist and flavorful while baking.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle richness and helps infuse the herbs into the salmon.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a savory warmth that perfectly complements the freshness of the fish.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a fragrant pine-like aroma that elevates the Christmas vibe.
- Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a gentle earthiness to balance the bright citrus notes.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Delivers a punch of citrus fragrance without the acidity.
- Lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Provides essential brightness and tenderizes the salmon.
- Orange (1, thinly sliced): Infuses a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast atop the salmon.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of green freshness and visual appeal when serving.
How to Make Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature perfectly cooks the salmon through while allowing the seasonings to infuse deeply without drying out the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the salmon
Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a large piece of parchment paper or foil positioned on a baking sheet. This setup will help make a sealed packet, locking moisture in for a tender result.
Step 3: Season the fillet
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon. Then gently rub the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice all over the top. Finish by sprinkling salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. This careful layering of flavors ensures every bite is bursting with herbal and citrus notes.
Step 4: Add the orange slices
Lay thin slices of orange over the seasoned fish. The slices not only contribute a lovely sweet aroma while baking but also create a stunning presentation when the packet is opened.
Step 5: Seal the packet
Fold the parchment paper or foil securely over the salmon, creating a sealed packet. This traps steam while cooking, keeping the salmon juicy and tender throughout the bake.
Step 6: Bake the salmon
Place the baking sheet with the sealed packet into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This step requires little attention but produces perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth results.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Carefully open the packet and sprinkle fresh parsley over the fish. Serve the Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe warm to maximize its comforting, festive appeal.
How to Serve Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish for this dish, lending a vibrant hint of green and a mild herbal note that enhances the salmon’s flavors without overpowering them. For a touch of elegance, consider a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or a few capers.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots to keep with the Christmas spirit. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad also complement the citrusy, herbaceous profile of the fish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive table, serve the salmon directly in the parchment packet at each place setting, allowing guests to open their own flavorful surprise. Alternatively, slice the salmon and arrange it on a platter surrounded by fresh herb sprigs and additional citrus slices for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe should be cooled completely before storing. Place the salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, remove the orange slices and herbs first to avoid sogginess. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it into a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months, though best enjoyed sooner for optimal taste.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out the salmon, place it in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle heat helps preserve moisture and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing the recipe to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried rosemary and thyme can be used as substitutes, but reduce the amount to about one-third to avoid overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.
Is it necessary to bake the salmon in a packet?
While baking in a sealed packet helps retain moisture and infuse flavor, you can bake it uncovered on a lined tray for a slightly crispier top—just watch the cooking time to prevent drying out.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Simply arrange multiple fillets on separate parchment packets or one large tray, ensuring even seasoning and spacing for uniform cooking.
What wine pairs well with this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe?
A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the herb and citrus notes in the salmon.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering around a table and sharing a beautiful dish like this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe. It’s simple yet sophisticated, bursting with fresh flavors that celebrate the season. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new holiday tradition that your family and friends will adore as much as I do!
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Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This delicious Christmas Baked Salmon recipe combines fresh herbs, citrus, and garlic to create a flavorful and tender holiday dish. The salmon is baked in a sealed parchment packet with orange slices for a moist, aromatic finish, making it perfect for a festive family dinner.
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 Extras
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the salmon evenly.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a large sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil laid on a baking sheet. This setup will help seal in moisture during baking.
- Apply the Marinade: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then evenly rub the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste for balanced flavor.
- Add Orange Slices: Arrange thin slices of orange neatly on top of the salmon. The citrus will impart a subtle sweetness and aroma as it bakes.
- Create a Packet: Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon to form a sealed packet, trapping steam inside to gently cook and keep the fish moist.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the packet on the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Serve: Carefully open the packet to release steam, garnish the salmon with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and serve warm.
Notes
- Choose a skin-on salmon fillet for better flavor and easier handling.
- Use fresh herbs to maximize aroma and taste.
- Check the salmon at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Parchment paper is preferred for a more natural, environmentally friendly cooking wrapping, but foil works well too.
