Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I walked into my kitchen, the scents of garlic and honey danced in the air, promising a feast that would celebrate the season. This Christmas Baked Salmon recipe is my go-to festive centerpiece, effortlessly transforming gatherings into unforgettable moments. With its beautiful honey butter glaze and creamy dill sauce, this dish not only looks stunning but also offers the ultimate convenience—prep it ahead of time and let it shine on your holiday table. Perfect for feeding a crowd of twelve, this lighter alternative to heavy holiday fare allows everyone to indulge without the guilt. Curious about how to create this eye-catching and delicious showstopper? Let’s dive into the steps to bring a touch of elegance to your holiday celebrations! Why is this salmon a holiday showstopper? Elegant, Festive Appeal: This Christmas Baked Salmon is not only a feast for the taste buds but an eye-catching centerpiece that will impress your guests. Effortless Prep: Prepare the glaze and sauces ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress. Flavorful Harmony: The combination of honey, garlic, and dill creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that complements the salmon beautifully. Perfect for a Crowd: Easily feeds 12, making it ideal for large gatherings or family celebrations. Guilt-Free Indulgence: With lighter ingredients and fewer calories, it’s a delightful way to enjoy holiday feasting without the heaviness of traditional meals. Pair it with a Festive Christmas Salad with Oranges, Pomegranate, and Feta for a refreshing contrast. Christmas Baked Salmon Ingredients For the Salmon • Salmon – 1.2–1.5 kg side, skin on, bones removed; ensure the skin is on for best results. • Kosher Salt – 2 1/4 tsp; enhances flavor—reduce if using table salt. • Black Pepper – 1 tsp; adds a mild heat. For the Honey Butter Glaze • Unsalted Butter – 150g; creates a rich glaze—use unsalted for better control of seasoning. • Honey – 1/2 cup; provides sweetness and promotes caramelization. • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; adds aromatic depth. For the Creamy Dill Sauce • Full-Fat Sour Cream – 1 1/2 cups; serves as the base for the creamy dill sauce. • Fresh Dill – 1/2 cup, chopped; imparts a fresh, herbaceous flavor. • Eshallot – 1/2, grated; introduces sweetness and a mild onion flavor. • Lemon Zest – 1 1/2 tbsp; brightens the dish. • Additional Kosher Salt – 1/2 tsp (for sauce); enhances overall flavor. For the Festive Tapenade • Dried Cranberries – 1 cup; adds sweetness and acidity—soak in orange juice for a festive touch. • Hot Orange Juice – 1 cup; used to soak cranberries for enhanced flavor. • Slivered Almonds – 1 cup, toasted; provides crunch and depth—toast for intensified flavor. • Parsley – 1/3 cup, chopped; adds freshness—can substitute with other herbs. • Olive Oil – 1 tbsp; helps bind the tapenade ingredients. For Garnish and Serving • Pomegranate Seeds – Seeds from 1 pomegranate; beautiful garnish that adds tartness. • Additional Parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish); enhances visual appeal. • Lemon Juice – 3 tbsp; brightens and freshens the dish. • Lemons – 2, cut into wedges; for serving—adds a refreshing touch. With this delightful Christmas Baked Salmon recipe, you’re one step closer to crafting a stunning holiday centerpiece that will leave your guests in awe! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Baked Salmon Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large baking tray with aluminum foil, then layer it with parchment paper for easy clean-up. This setup ensures that your Christmas Baked Salmon will cook evenly and release effortlessly when done. Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared tray. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat and stir in honey and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this luscious honey butter glaze over the salmon, allowing it to coat the fish fully for maximum flavor. Step 3: Season the Salmon Generously season the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper for enhanced taste. To keep the moisture locked in, cover the salmon with a layer of aluminum foil. This step helps create a tender fillet that will be bursting with flavor when it emerges from the oven. Step 4: Bake the Salmon Bake the covered salmon in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This initial baking ensures that the fish cooks through gently. After this, carefully uncover the salmon and switch the oven to broil, cooking for an additional 7-10 minutes until the top is golden and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Step 5: Rest the Salmon Once the salmon is beautifully golden, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. Allowing the Christmas Baked Salmon to rest is crucial, as it helps enhance the flavor and allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and tender. Step 6: Prepare the Dill Sauce While the salmon rests, mix together the full-fat sour cream, chopped dill, grated shallot, lemon zest, and an additional 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt in a bowl. This creamy dill sauce will add that fresh and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon; cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Step 7: Create the Festive Tapenade Next, soak the dried cranberries in a cup of hot orange juice for about 15 minutes, then drain. In a bowl, combine the soaked cranberries with toasted slivered almonds, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Season it lightly, mixing until everything is well coated. This tapenade adds a bright and festive touch to your dish. Step 8: Assemble and Garnish Once the salmon has cooled slightly, carefully spread the chilled dill sauce over the top. Next, layer the vibrant tapenade, sprinkle pomegranate seeds, and a handful of chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Finally, drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything, enhancing the bright and zesty flavors of your Christmas Baked Salmon. Step 9: Serve with Love Serve the festive salmon with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to add their own zesty touch. You can enjoy this glorious Christmas Baked Salmon warm or at room temperature, making it not only a stunning centerpiece but also an easy addition to your holiday feast! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Baked Salmon preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the honey butter glaze and the creamy dill sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, the festive tapenade can also be made a day ahead, ensuring that vibrant flavors deepen overnight. To maintain quality, cover the prepared salmon with plastic wrap, refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply bake the salmon, and then layer on your chilly dill sauce and tapenade right before presenting this stunning centerpiece at your holiday feast, guaranteeing that each bite is just as delicious as if it were made fresh that day! Expert Tips for Christmas Baked Salmon • Skin-On Salmon: Ensure the salmon has skin on for moisture retention and a perfect texture; it’s essential for the best results in your Christmas Baked Salmon. • Make-Ahead Advantage: Prepare the dill sauce and tapenade up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld and saves you time during busy holiday gatherings. • Perfectly Toasted Nuts: Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet until fragrant. This enhances the flavor dramatically and adds crunch to your festive tapenade. • Serve at Room Temperature: For the best texture, avoid reheating leftovers; serve them chilled or at room temperature. This maintains the flakiness and freshness of the salmon. • Try Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free twist, substitute the sour cream in the dill sauce with hummus or a plant-based yogurt, making it suitable for all guests. Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe Variations Feel free to add your own personal touch to this delightful Christmas Baked Salmon and make it uniquely yours! Trout Swap: Switch out salmon for trout or other fatty fish for a slightly different taste and texture. Maple Magic: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a sweeter and richer glaze that adds a new flavor twist. Nutty Touch: Substitute slivered almonds with different nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for varied crunch. Fruity Addition: Toss in some chopped grapes or dried cherries into your tapenade for a hint of natural sweetness that surprises the palate. Herb Variety: Experiment with fresh herbs like tarragon or basil instead of dill to provide a different aromatic profile for the creamy sauce. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the honey butter glaze for a touch of heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness. Garnish Delight: Top the dish with fresh microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning presentation that adds visual appeal. Pair this luscious salmon dish with a refreshing Festive Christmas Salad with Oranges, Pomegranate, and Feta for a delightful balance at your holiday table. With these fun variations, you can make this Christmas Baked Salmon your very own! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Baked Salmon Fridge: Store any leftover Christmas Baked Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed helps retain moisture and flavor. Freezer: If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: For best results, gently thaw the salmon overnight in the fridge before serving. Enjoy leftovers cold or let them come to room temperature for the best texture. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the honey butter glaze, dill sauce, and tapenade up to 24 hours ahead. Store them separately in the fridge to maintain freshness until you’re ready to serve. What to Serve with Christmas Baked Salmon When planning your festive meal, consider the delightful pairings that elevate the Christmas Baked Salmon experience. Festive Christmas Salad: A light medley of greens, oranges, pomegranate, and feta adds freshness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the salmon. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs complements the main dish while providing a satisfying texture and flavor contrast. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly drizzled with olive oil and roasted until crisp brings a delightful crunch and bright green color to your plate. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes create a creamy, comforting base that works beautifully with the honey glaze, enhancing the meal’s cozy vibe. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add a touch of sweetness, echoing the honey in the salmon while providing a lovely, colorful element. Sparkling Wine: A light, bubbly wine refreshes the palate and elevates the dining experience, making it a festive choice for holiday celebrations. Chocolate Mousse: Indulge with a rich, creamy dessert that rounds out your meal perfectly, offering a delightful end to the festive feast while remaining sophisticated. Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies are a nostalgic treat that bring seasonal warmth, making them a charming option for dessert alongside the salmon. Creating a harmonious meal around your Christmas Baked Salmon will ensure a memorable gathering filled with joy, flavor, and festive cheer. Christmas Baked Salmon Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best salmon for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting salmon, look for a side that is bright in color and firm to the touch. The skin should be shiny without any dark spots, indicating freshness. I recommend going for farmed Atlantic or wild-caught salmon, depending on availability. Farmed salmon typically has a higher fat content, making it juicier, perfect for baking. What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Baked Salmon? You can store leftover Christmas Baked Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keeping it sealed ensures that the salmon retains its moisture and flavor. If there are any components like the dill sauce or tapenade left, store them separately to maintain their freshness. Can I freeze Christmas Baked Salmon? Yes, you certainly can! To freeze the leftover salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This method prevents freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best taste. What if my salmon comes out dry after baking? Very! To prevent dry salmon, make sure to monitor it closely while baking. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time. If you do find it’s overcooked, serve it with a generous amount of the creamy dill sauce to add moisture. For the next time, aim to pull it out of the oven when it flakes easily but is still a bit glossy. Is there a dairy-free option for the creamy dill sauce? Absolutely! For a delightful dairy-free option, you can substitute the full-fat sour cream in the creamy dill sauce with hummus or a plant-based yogurt. This not only makes the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance but also adds a unique flavor twist to your Christmas Baked Salmon. Simply mix the dairy-free option with the other ingredients as you would, and enjoy the same creamy goodness! Elegant Christmas Baked Salmon for a Joyful Holiday Feast This Christmas Baked Salmon is a delightful centerpiece for holiday feasts, featuring a honey butter glaze and creamy dill sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 22 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 52 minutes mins Servings: 12 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon1.2–1.5 kg Salmon, skin on, bones removed Ensure the skin is on for best results.2 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances flavor—reduce if using table salt.1 tsp Black Pepper Adds a mild heat.For the Honey Butter Glaze150 g Unsalted Butter Creates a rich glaze—use unsalted for better control of seasoning.1/2 cup Honey Provides sweetness and promotes caramelization.3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.For the Creamy Dill Sauce1 1/2 cups Full-Fat Sour Cream Serves as the base for the creamy dill sauce.1/2 cup Fresh Dill, chopped Imparts a fresh, herbaceous flavor.1/2 unit Eshallot, grated Introduces sweetness and a mild onion flavor.1 1/2 tbsp Lemon Zest Brightens the dish.1/2 tsp Additional Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor.For the Festive Tapenade1 cup Dried Cranberries Adds sweetness and acidity—soak in orange juice for a festive touch.1 cup Hot Orange Juice Used to soak cranberries for enhanced flavor.1 cup Slivered Almonds, toasted Provides crunch and depth—toast for intensified flavor.1/3 cup Parsley, chopped Adds freshness—can substitute with other herbs.1 tbsp Olive Oil Helps bind the tapenade ingredients.For Garnish and Serving1 pomegranate Pomegranate Seeds Beautiful garnish that adds tartness.1/4 cup Additional Parsley, chopped Enhances visual appeal.3 tbsp Lemon Juice Brightens and freshens the dish.2 unit Lemons, cut into wedges For serving—adds a refreshing touch. Equipment OvenBaking TrayParchment paperAluminum FoilSaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large baking tray with aluminum foil, then layer it with parchment paper.Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared tray. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat and stir in honey and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this glaze over the salmon.Generously season the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper. Cover with a layer of aluminum foil.Bake the covered salmon in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then uncover and switch the oven to broil for an additional 7-10 minutes until golden and crispy.Let the salmon rest for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and allow juices to redistribute.Mix together the full-fat sour cream, chopped dill, grated shallot, lemon zest, and additional kosher salt in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.Soak the dried cranberries in hot orange juice for about 15 minutes, then drain. Combine with toasted slivered almonds, chopped parsley, and olive oil.Spread the dill sauce over the top of the cooled salmon. Layer the tapenade, sprinkle pomegranate seeds, and add chopped parsley. Drizzle lemon juice over everything.Serve with lemon wedges, enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesFor optimal taste, ensure the salmon has skin on. Prepare sauces in advance to save time. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!