Healthy herb-crusted baked salmon with citrus glaze recipe for Christmas -

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

Christmas is a time for family, festivities, and indulgent meals, but not every dish has to be heavy or calorie-laden. Enter the Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon with Citrus Glaze – a healthy, delicious option that brings a burst of flavor to your holiday table.

The combination of fresh herbs, a crisp crust, and the sweet tanginess of the citrus glaze creates a delightful contrast to the richness of the salmon. This dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress, whether you’re cooking for an intimate family meal or a larger gathering.

Salmon is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and the fresh herbs bring brightness and aroma to the dish. The citrus glaze enhances the flavors with a sweet and tangy twist, making this salmon recipe a must-try for your Christmas celebration.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and a great source of protein.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps the herbs stick to the salmon.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Enhances flavor and helps the crust adhere to the salmon.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds robust flavor to the herb crust.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a bright, herbaceous note.
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: Complements the richness of the salmon with a fresh, slightly tangy flavor.
1 tsp lemon zest: Adds zesty, aromatic brightness to the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

For the Citrus Glaze:

Juice of 1 orange: Adds a sweet, tangy base to the glaze.
Juice of 1 lemon: Balances the sweetness of the orange with tartness.
1 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps thicken the glaze.
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds depth and a slight tang to the glaze.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Enhances the complexity of the glaze.
Pinch of salt: To bring out the flavors.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Crust

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir in olive oil to form a coarse paste that will adhere to the salmon and create a flavorful crust.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure the herb mixture sticks. Brush each fillet with Dijon mustard to add flavor and help the herb crust adhere. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Step 5: Prepare the Citrus Glaze

While the salmon bakes, prepare the citrus glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt. Simmer over medium heat until the glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve

Once the salmon is done, drizzle the citrus glaze over the fillets. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a festive presentation, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill provide the best flavor, while dried herbs lack the same intensity.
Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying out the fish. A perfectly baked salmon should be moist and flaky.
Taste and Adjust the Glaze: If the glaze is too sweet or too tart, adjust by adding more honey or lemon juice as needed.
Let the Salmon Rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.

Variations to Try

Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce: Serve with a thick, luxurious lemon butter sauce instead of the citrus glaze for a richer flavor.
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Panko: Add panko breadcrumbs to the herb mixture for a crunchier texture.
Garlic & Rosemary Crust: Swap out the dill and parsley for rosemary and thyme for an earthier, more aromatic crust.
Caper Garnish: Top the finished salmo.n with capers for a salty, briny contrast to the sweet glaze.

Pairing Suggestions

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus to enhance the deep flavors of the salmo.n.
Quinoa or Wild Rice: These grains are a hearty, nutritious pairing that complements the citrus glaze.
Crisp White Wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will balance the tangy glaze and cleanse your palate.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, rich side dish to complement the bright, tangy glaze.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the Herb Crust Ahead: The herb mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Make the Glaze Ahead: The citrus glaze can be prepared the day before and refrigerated. Reheat it gently on low heat before serving.
Assemble Just Before Baking: Coat the salmo.n with the herb crust right before baking to keep the herbs fresh and vibrant.

Storage & Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the salmo.n dry and rubbery.

Allergen Information and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. If adding breadcrumbs, use gluten-free options.
Dairy-Free: The recipe is dairy-free, but if you opt for a lemon butter sauce, use a dairy-free butter substitute if needed.
Nut-Free: The recipe does not contain nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.

Chef’s Notes

Salmo.n is one of the healthiest fish options, high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for promoting heart health. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of salmo.n while offering a festive twist with the herb crust and citrus glaze. It’s a fresh, nutritious addition to your Christmas table that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or elegance.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Vitamin C: 40% of RDI
Omega-3: High levels from the salmo.n

FAQs

1. Which herbs pair nicely with salmon and lemon in the oven?

Herbs like parsley, dill, rosemary, and thyme pair well with salmo.n and lemon. These herbs enhance the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.

2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs in place of fresh ones, but reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

3. What should I serve with herb-crusted salmon?

Herb-crusted salmo.n pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, wild rice, or a light salad. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrus glaze perfectly.

4. How can I prevent salmon from drying out in the oven?

To prevent the salmo.n from drying out, bake it at a moderate temperature and check for doneness after 20 minutes. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C), and the salmo.n should flake easily with a fork.

Inspiration to Try This Recipe

This Herb-Crusted Baked Salmo.n with Citrus Glaze is a perfect addition to your Christmas feast. It’s not only packed with flavor but also offers a healthier alternative to heavier holiday dishes. The bright citrus glaze and fresh herb crust make it an unforgettable dish for any occasion, leaving your guests feeling satisfied and delighted. Plus, you’ll love knowing you’ve served something both healthy and delicious.