Description
This Christmas Baked Salmon recipe features a beautifully seasoned salmon fillet infused with fresh herbs, citrus zest, and orange slices, baked to tender perfection. Ideal for festive dinners, this flavorful dish combines the freshness of lemon and orange with fragrant rosemary and thyme, making it both elegant and easy to prepare.
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
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the salmon evenly.
- Prepare the Salmon Base: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil laid on a baking sheet, providing a base for the marinade and for wrapping.
- Apply Marinade: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then evenly rub minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice all over the surface of the fillet. Season it generously with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Arrange Orange Slices: Lay the thinly sliced orange pieces on top of the salmon for added citrus aroma and a festive look.
- Create the Packet: Carefully fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet, which helps to lock in moisture and flavors during baking.
- 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 perfectly cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon packet from the oven, carefully open it to avoid steam burns, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm for a delicious holiday centerpiece.
Notes
- Be careful when opening the foil or parchment packet as hot steam will escape.
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillet.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
