Christmas Salmon

Christmas Salmon is a stunning and flavorful dish that makes a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Featuring a beautifully baked or roasted salmon fillet topped with festive ingredients like pomegranate seeds, citrus, and fresh herbs, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional holiday roasts or just love seafood, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A fresh and vibrant alternative to heavier holiday dishes
  • Packed with festive flavors and colors
  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
  • Healthy yet indulgent, rich in omega-3s and antioxidants
  • Perfect for pairing with a variety of side dishes

Ingredients

Christmas Salmon 10 Christmas Salmon is a stunning and flavorful dish that makes a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Featuring a beautifully baked or roasted salmon fillet topped with festive ingredients like pomegranate seeds, citrus, and fresh herbs, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional holiday roasts or just love seafood, this recipe is a must-try.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Fresh salmon fillet (whole or portions)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh rosemary and thyme
  • Orange zest and juice
  • Pomegranate seeds
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Crushed pistachios or almonds (optional for crunch)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the salmon:
    • Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet.
    • Drizzle with olive oil and rub with minced garlic, orange zest, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Make the glaze:
    • In a small bowl, mix orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard.
    • Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon.
  4. Bake the salmon:
    • Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.
    • The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish and serve:
    • Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, crushed nuts, and fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4–6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

  • Citrus Infusion: Add lemon or grapefruit zest for extra brightness.
  • Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil.
  • Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or a cedar plank for a richer taste.
  • Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with crispy fried shallots.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as salmon can dry out when reheated from frozen.

FAQs

Christmas Salmon
Christmas Salmon 11 Christmas Salmon is a stunning and flavorful dish that makes a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Featuring a beautifully baked or roasted salmon fillet topped with festive ingredients like pomegranate seeds, citrus, and fresh herbs, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional holiday roasts or just love seafood, this recipe is a must-try.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before baking.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and baste with extra glaze if needed.

Can I grill this salmon instead?

Yes! Grill over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes.

What’s the best way to serve this salmon?

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the glaze and toppings ahead, but bake fresh for the best texture.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temp of 125–130°F for medium.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! Trout or cod would work well with the same flavors.

What can I substitute for pomegranate seeds?

Dried cranberries, cherries, or even citrus segments are great alternatives.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Just ensure all ingredients, including mustard and honey, are dairy-free.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, but replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener.

Conclusion

Christmas Salmon is a festive, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its bright citrus glaze, juicy pomegranate seeds, and aromatic herbs, it’s a show-stopping yet easy-to-make main course. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a special seafood dish, this salmon recipe is a guaranteed hit!

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Christmas Salmon

Christmas Salmon

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Christmas Salmon is a show-stopping dish that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for holiday gatherings. The salmon is coated in a garlicky herb butter, roasted to perfection, and finished with a sweet-tart pomegranate glaze. Topped with pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, and toasted nuts, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious! Serve with roasted vegetables or a citrusy salad for a festive meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salmon:

  • 2 lb salmon fillet (skin on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Pomegranate Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

For Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pecans (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
  • Lemon slices

Instructions

Prepare the Pomegranate Glaze:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon.

Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Season the Salmon:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.

Brush the garlic herb butter all over the salmon fillet.

3. Roast the Salmon:

Place the salmon on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until flaky and opaque in the center.

In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the salmon with the pomegranate glaze.

4. Garnish & Serve:

Remove the salmon from the oven and transfer to a serving platter.

Sprinkle with pomegranate arils, toasted almonds or pecans, and fresh herbs.

Serve with lemon slices and extra glaze on the side.

 


Notes

  • Make-Ahead: The glaze can be made 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed sweet potatoes, or a citrus salad for a balanced meal.
  • Glaze Variation: Swap pomegranate juice for cranberry juice for a slightly different twist.

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