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Christmas Baked Salmon Easy Make Ahead Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Christmas Baked Salmon Easy Make Ahead Recipe

I’ve made this Christmas Baked Salmon so many times, and it’s always the star of the table! The tender, flaky salmon paired with a light citrusy infusion makes every bite irresistible. When I first served this to my family, everyone was amazed at how something so elegant could be so easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh salmon fillets about 4-6 ounces per serving: Always choose high-quality, fresh fillets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Lemon slices 1-2 lemons: Adds brightness and helps keep the salmon moist while baking.
  • Olive oil 2 tablespoons: Enhances richness and helps the seasonings stick to the fillets.
  • Fresh dill 2-3 sprigs: The ultimate herb pairing for salmon, giving it a fresh, earthy flavor.
  • Fresh thyme a few sprigs: Complements the dill and adds depth to the herbaceous flavors.
  • Salt to taste: Brings out the natural flavors of the fish.
  • Black pepper to taste: Adds a subtle kick and balances the citrus.

Method
 

  1. Before anything else, get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Then, line a baking tray with parchment paper to keep the salmon from sticking and make cleanup hassle-free.
  2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the lined baking tray. Drizzle the olive oil generously over the fillets, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Season them with salt, pepper, and the fresh herbs. The combination of dill and thyme pairs perfectly with salmon to create a savory, aromatic base.
  3. Top each fillet with slices of fresh lemon. These citrus rounds not only look gorgeous but also release their tangy juice as they bake, enhancing the delicate flavor of the fish.
  4. Cover the entire tray with foil. This step is critical to keep the salmon moist and tender. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes effortlessly with a fork. Keep an eye on it, as overcooking can make it dry.
  5. Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a moment. Garnish with sprigs of dill and extra lemon wedges to give it that restaurant-quality presentation.

Notes

  • Bring Salmon to Room Temperature: This ensures evenly cooked fillets.
  • Don’t Overcook: Check for doneness frequently to avoid drying out the salmon.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: They truly make a world of difference in enhancing the flavor.
  • Foil is Key: Always cover the salmon during baking to lock in moisture.