If you’re searching for a dish that truly dazzles at your holiday table, the Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. This festive salmon is perfectly tender, bursting with bright citrus and herb flavors, and glazed with a subtly sweet honey-Dijon mixture that makes every bite delightful. It’s easy enough for a busy holiday but impressive enough to feel special, making it a standout centerpiece your family and friends will remember year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple and fresh ingredients come together in this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe to create a feast for both your eyes and palate. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the richness of the salmon to the zing of fresh lemon and the aromatic herbs that elevate the flavors to holiday-perfect.
- Salmon side (2 to 2.5 pounds): The star of the dish, providing tender, flaky goodness packed with omega-3s.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a silky texture and helps to meld the glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Gives a sharp, tangy kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Honey or maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Offers natural sweetness and a lovely caramelized finish during baking.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Imparts depth and warmth to the glaze.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brings earthy, pine-like notes to the salmon.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1 tablespoon): Complements rosemary with a subtle, lemony herb flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the elements and balances sweetness.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat for complexity.
- Lemon slices and fresh herbs for garnish (optional): Elevates the presentation and adds freshness.
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional): Provides bursts of color and juicy tartness perfect for a holiday touch.
How to Make Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil will make cleanup a breeze. Lay the salmon skin-side down, which helps keep the fillet moist and allows the skin to crisp slightly if you choose to serve it.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This simple yet flavorful glaze infuses the salmon with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that truly elevate this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe.
Step 3: Glaze the Salmon
Using a spoon or brush, evenly coat the top of the salmon with the glaze, making sure each bit is covered with those incredible flavors. This step ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness and gives the salmon that beautiful glaze when baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the salmon into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature between 135 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This timing ensures it stays tender while fully developing the glaze’s shine and taste.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your fillet moist and flavorful. Finish by garnishing with fresh lemon slices, herbs, and if you’re feeling festive, jewel-like pomegranate seeds. Those pops of color and flavor truly bring this Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe to life.
How to Serve Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes make a world of difference. Fresh lemon slices add brightness and a zesty aroma, while rosemary and thyme sprigs let the dish look as fresh as it tastes. The sparkle of pomegranate seeds is not only stunning but also adds a sweet-tart texture contrast, making your holiday presentation unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a range of comforting sides. Roasted winter vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add earthy sweetness, herbed rice or quinoa brings a fluffy, fragrant contrast, and a crisp winter salad offers refreshing crunch and balance. Each side complements the rich, glazed salmon beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special holiday touch, serve the salmon on a wooden board or festive platter lined with fresh herbs and citrus slices. Create mini salmon “plates” by slicing and arranging small portions on individual plates garnished with pomegranate and herbs. You can even serve alongside artisanal breads or crostini for an elegant buffet-style feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to enjoy the salmon within 2 days to maintain the freshest texture and flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon, but the texture might be slightly altered after thawing. For best results, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Use within 1 month for optimal freshness. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To gently reheat without drying out the salmon, place it in a covered dish and warm in a low oven (around 275 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving on low power can work too but do so carefully to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice can help maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use salmon fillets instead of a whole side?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a whole side, thick salmon fillets will work beautifully. Just adjust the baking time slightly—usually 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
This Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian-friendly, making it a versatile choice for many dietary needs.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Yes, the glaze can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before applying to the salmon for a hassle-free holiday prep.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried rosemary and thyme can be used in a pinch; just reduce the amount by about half since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Look for salmon that flakes easily when tested with a fork and has an internal temperature between 135 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Overcooking will dry it out, so keep a close watch near the end of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe is one of those magical dishes that makes feast preparations feel joyful and effortless. Its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and herbal flavors, combined with tender, flaky salmon, is bound to warm hearts and tummies alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own holiday memories around this delicious centerpiece!
Print
Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Christmas Baked Salmon is a festive and flavorful main dish perfect for holiday gatherings. The salmon is coated with a delightful glaze made from Dijon mustard, honey, fresh herbs, and garlic, then baked to tender perfection. Garnished with lemon slices, fresh herbs, and pomegranate seeds, this recipe combines simplicity and elegance for a memorable holiday meal.
Ingredients
Salmon and Glaze
- 1 side of salmon (about 2 to 2.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices
- Fresh herbs
- Pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it is evenly spread out for consistent cooking.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Apply the Glaze: Spoon or brush the glaze evenly over the top surface of the salmon, coating it thoroughly to ensure rich flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature between 135°F to 145°F.
- Rest the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, enhancing moistness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon slices, fresh herbs, and pomegranate seeds if desired, then serve warm alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- This festive baked salmon is perfect for holiday gatherings and special meals.
- To make ahead, prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Pair this salmon with roasted vegetables, herbed rice, or a refreshing winter salad for a complete meal.
