I’ve made this Christmas Baked Salmon Easy Make Ahead 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.
I love that I can make this ahead of time, which saves me a ton of stress during the busy holiday season. Trust me, this dish will bring joy and magic to your celebrations without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to create this show-stopping salmon dish. Each ingredient has its role in making the flavors pop.
- 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.
Note: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on the size of your fillets.
Flavorful Variations
Here are a few ways to tailor the recipe to your preferences or try something new.
- For Dairy-Free: Skip the butter altogether and use extra olive oil instead.
- Citrus Twist: Replace some of the lemon slices with orange slices for a sweeter, zestier infusion.
- Sweet & Tangy Glaze: Add a touch of maple syrup or honey for sweetness that balances the acidity.
- Spicy Edge: A dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes can bring a gentle heat to the dish.
Cooking Time Breakdown
This baked salmon comes together quickly, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Essential Equipment
- Baking Tray: For even cooking in the oven.
- Parchment Paper: Keeps the salmon from sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Foil: Locks in moisture while the salmon bakes.
- Sharp Knife: Perfect for slicing lemons or portioning the salmon.
How to Make Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe?
This recipe is as simple as it is beautiful. Follow these easy steps for a dish that’s sure to impress!
Preheat the Oven
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.
Prepare the Salmon
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.
Add Lemon Slices
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.
Bake the Salmon
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.
Rest and Garnish
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.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Baked Salmon
After making this recipe many times, here are my tried-and-true tips to make it even better!
- 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.
Serving Ideas for Christmas Baked Salmon
For an elegant presentation, arrange the fillets on a large platter with sprigs of fresh dill and a ring of lemon slices. Pair with vibrant sides like roasted asparagus, herbed potatoes, or a festive winter salad. If you’re feeling fancy, add a drizzle of maple-mustard glaze or serve with a light citrusy aioli. Your guests will love the professional-looking spread!
Nutritional Information
This dish is as healthy as it is delicious. Here’s a quick nutrient breakdown per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 20g
Make Ahead and Storage
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to prep beforehand.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can bake the salmon up to a day in advance. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven before serving, and it’ll taste just as fresh!
Storage Guidelines
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing is another option; simply wrap the cooled fillets tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe?
There are so many reasons to adore this dish. Here are a few highlights!
- Quick & Easy: No complicated techniques mean you can focus on enjoying the holidays.
- Customizable: From citrus glazes to spicy add-ins, the options are endless.
- Healthy Choice: Rich in omega-3s and nutrients, it’s a light yet satisfying main dish.
- Make-Ahead Wonder: Prep it early to free up precious time on Christmas Day.
- Festive Flair: Beautiful, vibrant presentation makes it centerpiece-worthy.
This Christmas Baked Salmon is destined to become a holiday tradition in your home. Give it a try and watch it wow your table!
For a better understanding, this video shows how it’s done step by step:
Christmas Baked Salmon Easy Make Ahead
Ingredients
- 4-6 fresh salmon fillets 4-6 ounces each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2-3 sprigs fresh dill
- A few sprigs fresh thyme
- 1-2 lemons sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the tray and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh dill and thyme.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices.
- Cover the tray with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with extra dill and lemon wedges, then serve.
Notes
- Let the salmon come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the salmon to avoid dryness.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- You can bake the salmon a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven.
