Description
This Christmas Baked Salmon recipe offers a flavorful and festive way to enjoy a tender, moist salmon fillet infused with fresh herbs, citrus, and garlic. Perfectly baked in a foil packet, the salmon retains its juiciness and aromatic essence, making it an elegant yet simple main dish for holiday dinners or any special occasion.
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
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your salmon.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down onto a large piece of parchment paper or foil on a baking sheet to make a sealed packet for cooking.
- Season the Fillet: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon, then rub minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice all over the fillet. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Add Orange Slices: Arrange thin slices of orange on top of the seasoned salmon to infuse it with subtle citrus notes during baking.
- Seal the Packet: Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet, which will trap moisture and aromas, keeping the fish tender.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 20-25 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon packet from the oven, carefully open it to release steam, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a festive and delicious meal.
Notes
- To check for doneness, the salmon should easily flake with a fork and have an opaque appearance.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones by using about one-third the amount.
- For a more intense citrus flavor, add a splash of orange juice in the marinade.
- Ensure the foil or parchment is well sealed to lock in moisture and flavors during baking.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
