Description
This Christmas Baked Salmon recipe is an easy, flavorful dish perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion. Featuring a maple-mustard glaze infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, the salmon is baked to tender perfection. It’s a make-ahead recipe that can be served warm or cold, making holiday meal planning stress-free and delicious.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless)
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon slices
- Pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it lies flat for even cooking.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat Salmon: Spoon or brush the marinade evenly over the salmon fillet, covering all surfaces. If time allows, let the salmon sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
- Bake: Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, lemon slices, and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
- Serve: Serve the salmon warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a holiday salad.
Notes
- This salmon can be baked up to a day in advance and served chilled or gently reheated.
- For extra holiday flavor, add fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a festive salad to complete your meal.
