The aroma of roasted salmon wafts through the house, instantly transporting me to holiday gatherings filled with laughter and cheer. This Christmas Baked Salmon with Honey Butter Glaze is the star of the show, effortlessly balancing elegance and comfort at your festive table. Not only is it visually stunning and sure to impress your guests, but it’s also a make-ahead friendly dish that lets you enjoy more time with loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen. With its flaky texture enhanced by a sweet-savory glaze, this lighter holiday meal stands out among richer fare and leaves everyone craving more. Are you ready to create a memorable dish that embodies the spirit of the season? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why Is This Salmon So Special? Festive Appeal: This dish beautifully captures the spirit of the season, making it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the glaze, creamy sauce, and tapenade in advance, saving you time and allowing you to enjoy the festivities more! Lighter Option: Perfectly balances heavier holiday dishes, offering a lighter, flavorful choice that leaves everyone satisfied. Deliciously Versatile: Swap honey for maple syrup or try different toppings to keep it fresh and exciting! Pair it with a Festive Christmas Salad with Oranges, Pomegranate, and Feta for a complete meal. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet-savory glaze combined with flaky salmon and creamy dill sauce creates a symphony of taste that everyone will love. Gorgeous Presentation: With the captivating colors of pomegranate seeds and vibrant greenery, this dish is not just food—it’s a feast for the eyes! Christmas Baked Salmon Ingredients • Dive into the festive flavors with these essential ingredients! For the Salmon Salmon (1.2–1.5 kg side, skin on, bones removed) – Look for skin-on fillets for optimal texture; frozen salmon is acceptable if thawed fully. Kosher Salt (2 1/4 tsp + 1/2 tsp for sauce) – Enhances flavor; reduce amount if using table salt due to its greater salinity. Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor. For the Honey Butter Glaze Unsalted Butter (150g) – Provides a rich, creamy base for the glaze. Honey (1/2 cup) – Delivers sweetness and creates a beautifully sticky texture; maple syrup is a great alternative. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses aromatic flavor into the glaze. For the Creamy Dill Sauce Full-Fat Sour Cream (1 1/2 cups) – Forms the creamy foundation of the sauce; use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free choice. Fresh Dill (1/2 cup, chopped) – Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the salmon beautifully. Eschallot (1/2, grated) – Introduces a mild onion flavor for added depth. Lemon Zest (1 1/2 tbsp) – Brightens the dish with a burst of citrusy flavor. For the Tapenade Dried Cranberries (1 cup) – Offers sweetness and texture, enhancing the festive vibe. Hot Orange Juice (1 cup) – Rehydrates cranberries while contributing a refreshing citrus flavor; swap with fresh orange juice if preferred. Slivered Almonds (1 cup, toasted) – Adds crunch; feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts. Parsley (1/3 cup, chopped) – Provides freshness and color to the tapenade and as a beautiful garnish. Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Aids in mixing the tapenade ingredients smoothly. For the Garnish Pomegranate Seeds (Seeds of 1 fruit) – Adds vibrant color and a burst of flavor, perfect for the festive season. Lemon Juice (3 tbsp) – Offers a tart contrast that balances the richness of the salmon. Lemon Wedges (2, cut for serving) – Enhances presentation and flavor when served alongside the dish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Baked Salmon Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the Christmas Baked Salmon comes out perfectly cooked and flaky. While the oven warms up, line a large baking tray with foil and parchment paper, which will help with easy clean-up and prevent sticking. Step 2: Prep the Salmon Place the salmon side, skin-side down, on the lined baking tray. Generously pour the honey butter glaze over the salmon, ensuring it’s even coated. Season the fish with 2 1/4 teaspoons of kosher salt and a sprinkle of black pepper for flavor. After seasoning, gently cover the tray with foil, sealing in moisture. Step 3: Bake the Salmon Pop the covered salmon into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The salmon will begin to cook through and turn opaque. Keep an eye on it, as the aroma of the honey butter glaze will start to fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! Step 4: Broil for Perfection After 15 minutes, carefully uncover the salmon and switch your oven to the broil setting. Broil the fish for an additional 7–10 minutes, watching as the glaze turns golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon easily flakes with a fork, yet remains moist inside. Step 5: Let it Rest Once perfectly broiled, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor of your Christmas Baked Salmon. Meanwhile, you can prepare your accompanying sauces and tapenade. Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce In a separate bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups of full-fat sour cream, 1/2 cup of chopped fresh dill, grated eschallot, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon zest. This creamy dill sauce will complement the salmon beautifully. Season with a pinch of salt and place in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Step 7: Make the Tapenade While the salmon rests, soak 1 cup of dried cranberries in 1 cup of hot orange juice for 15 minutes. After soaking, drain the cranberries and combine them in a bowl with 1 cup of toasted slivered almonds, freshly chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Mix until well combined for a festive touch. Step 8: Assemble and Serve When ready to serve, spread the chilled creamy dill sauce over the salmon. Generously top it with the cranberry tapenade and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a bright finish, and serve with lemon wedges for added zing. Your stunning Christmas Baked Salmon is now ready to impress! Christmas Baked Salmon Variations Feel free to make this festive dish truly your own by trying these exciting twists! Trout Swap: Substitute trout for salmon for a delicious alternative that still offers flaky texture and rich flavor. Maple Magic: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the glaze. The richness of maple will indulge your taste buds. Dairy-Free Delight: Mix hummus or plant-based yogurt with dill and lemon zest for a creamy sauce that caters to dairy-free diets. This option maintains all the flavor of the original. Nutty Toppings: Experiment with toppings like toasted pine nuts or pecans to add extra crunch and flavor complexity. Each nut brings its own charm, ensuring a delightful surprise with every bite. Fruit Fusion: Incorporate different dried fruits like apricots or figs in the tapenade for a pop of natural sweetness and texture contrast. You can even add a dash of balsamic for an extra layer of flavor! Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze. This subtle spice elevates the dish without overpowering its festive essence. Citrus Burst: Swap orange juice for fresh lemon or lime juice in the tapenade to brighten the flavors even more. The zesty notes will enhance the overall freshness of the dish. Herb Variations: Try using different herbs like tarragon or basil instead of dill for a fresh spin on the creamy sauce. Each herb will lend a different, yet delightful flavor profile to your salmon. For more delicious inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Mini Baked Chicken Tacos and the refreshing Festive Christmas Salad with Oranges, Pomegranate, and Feta. These dishes make great companions for your Christmas Baked Salmon! Make Ahead Options This Christmas Baked Salmon is perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy more time with family during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the honey butter glaze, creamy dill sauce, and cranberry tapenade up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the glaze and sauces, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. On the day of serving, bake the salmon as directed, top with the chilled sauces, and finish with pomegranate seeds and lemon juice just before serving. This ensures your dish remains just as delicious and visually stunning, making meal prep a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Baked Salmon Fridge: Keep any leftover Christmas Baked Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in a low oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes to preserve texture; avoid microwaving to prevent dryness. Serving Cold: Alternatively, serve the salmon cold as part of a light salad or sandwich, enhancing its taste while still celebrating the festive spirit. Expert Tips for Christmas Baked Salmon Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for skin-on, fresh salmon as it provides the best texture and flavor. Avoid overcooking for a perfect, flaky result. Prep Ahead: Preparing the honey butter glaze, creamy dill sauce, and tapenade the day before can enhance flavors and reduce stress on serving day. Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness: aim for 49°C (medium-rare) to 54°C (medium) depending on your preference. Avoid Soggy Skin: Bake covered initially then broil uncovered. This helps achieve crispy skin while retaining moisture in the salmon. Flavor Balance: A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs adds both flavor and visual appeal to your Christmas Baked Salmon, enhancing its festive charm. What to Serve with Christmas Baked Salmon Pairing your festive dish perfectly with complementary sides elevates the entire meal experience. Festive Christmas Salad: A mix of citrus, pomegranate, and feta brightens the table, adding color and contrasting flavors to rich salmon. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic comfort dish provides a smooth, buttery contrast to the tender fish, enhancing the meal’s warmth. For a refreshing touch, consider serving a light Garlic Green Beans. Crisp and vibrant, they add both texture and a burst of color to your plate. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and fluffy, quinoa adds a wholesome element, making your dish not just delicious but also nutritious. Top it with fresh herbs to balance flavors. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized, slightly crispy edges of these sprouts provide a delightful crunch, making them a must-have alongside your Christmas Baked Salmon. A chilled White Wine Spritzer can elevate your holiday dining experience, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the glaze with refreshing fizz. Make sure to wrap up your meal with a light Cranberry Sorbet. Its sweet-tart flavor cleanses the palate and keeps the festive spirit alive! Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe FAQs What type of salmon is best for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing salmon for your Christmas Baked Salmon, opt for skin-on fillets as they enhance the flavor and texture. Look for bright, shiny flesh without dark spots, and ensure the salmon smells fresh. If fresh is not available, previously frozen salmon that has thawed completely is acceptable. How should I store leftovers from my Christmas Baked Salmon? Very easy! Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Before storing, make sure the salmon is completely cooled to retain its moisture and flavor. If you have a large amount, it’s best to portion it out to avoid repeated exposure to air when you take servings out. Can I freeze the Christmas Baked Salmon? Yes! To freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air is trapped, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. This method will help maintain quality. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to utilize, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it in the oven for best results. What if my salmon is overcooked? If your Christmas Baked Salmon ends up being overcooked, don’t worry just yet! You can try to salvage it by serving it with plenty of sauce or tapenade—this will add moisture and flavor back. Also, using the creamy dill sauce generously can help mask the dryness. Remember, it’s best to use a meat thermometer for future preparations to ensure perfectly cooked salmon! Can I prepare the components ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended! You can prepare the honey butter glaze, creamy dill sauce, and cranberry tapenade up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This not only saves time on serving day but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, boosting your holiday dish’s taste. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests, consider dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free option, substitute the full-fat sour cream with plant-based yogurt. Additionally, be mindful of allergies; for instance, check if guests are allergic to nuts when using slivered almonds in the tapenade. Always ask if unsure, as the more the merrier during the holidays! Festive Christmas Baked Salmon with Honey Butter Bliss This Christmas Baked Salmon with Honey Butter Glaze is a festive dish that perfectly balances elegance and comfort. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon1.2–1.5 kg Salmon side, skin on, bones removed Look for skin-on fillets for optimal texture; frozen salmon is acceptable if thawed fully.2 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; reduce amount if using table salt due to its greater salinity.1 tsp Black Pepper Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.For the Honey Butter Glaze150 g Unsalted Butter Provides a rich, creamy base for the glaze.1/2 cup Honey Delivers sweetness and creates a sticky texture; maple syrup is a great alternative.3 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses aromatic flavor into the glaze.For the Creamy Dill Sauce1 1/2 cups Full-Fat Sour Cream Forms the creamy foundation of the sauce; use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free choice.1/2 cup Fresh Dill, chopped Adds a fragrant herbal note.1/2 Eschallot, grated Introduces a mild onion flavor.1 1/2 tbsp Lemon Zest Brightens the dish with citrus flavor.For the Tapenade1 cup Dried Cranberries Offers sweetness and texture.1 cup Hot Orange Juice Rehydrates cranberries; swap with fresh juice if preferred.1 cup Slivered Almonds, toasted Adds crunch; substitute with favorite nuts.1/3 cup Parsley, chopped Provides freshness and color.1 tbsp Olive Oil Aids in mixing tapenade ingredients.For the GarnishSeeds of 1 fruit Pomegranate Seeds Adds vibrant color and flavor.3 tbsp Lemon Juice Offers tart contrast.2 Lemon Wedges, cut for serving Enhances presentation. Equipment OvenBaking traymixing bowl Method PreparationBegin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large baking tray with foil and parchment paper.Place the salmon side, skin-side down, on the lined baking tray. Pour the honey butter glaze over the salmon and season with kosher salt and black pepper.Cover the tray with foil and bake for 15 minutes.Uncover the salmon and broil for an additional 7–10 minutes until the glaze is golden and bubbly.Let the salmon rest for at least 15 minutes before serving.Sauce PreparationIn a bowl, mix together sour cream, fresh dill, grated eschallot, and lemon zest. Season with salt.Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.Tapenade PreparationSoak dried cranberries in hot orange juice for 15 minutes. Drain and combine with slivered almonds, parsley, and olive oil.ServingSpread the creamy dill sauce over the salmon, top with the cranberry tapenade and pomegranate seeds, and drizzle with lemon juice. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesOpt for skin-on, fresh salmon for the best texture. Preparing components a day ahead can enhance flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
