Baked Boursin Salmon

Baked Boursin Salmon is a delightful dish that combines tender salmon fillets with the rich and creamy flavor of Boursin cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests, this recipe is both simple and elegant. The creamy garlic and herbs blend beautifully with the salmon, creating a meal that’s sure to please any palate. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of Boursin cheese, garlic, and lemon elevates the taste of the salmon.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe works well for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or date nights.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors from the garnishes make it visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish helps distribute heat evenly for perfect cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Spoon or spatula: Useful for spreading the cheese mixture evenly on the salmon.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (5–6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 Boursin cheese round (5.2 oz) – garlic & fine herbs flavor preferred
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
• Lemon wedges for serving

How to Make Baked Boursin Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will prevent sticking and make serving easier.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the Boursin cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and half of the olive oil or melted butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fillets and season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish with skin side down if using skin-on. Spoon the Boursin cheese mixture evenly over each fillet. Spread it gently with the back of a spoon to cover each piece thoroughly.

Step 6: Bake in Oven

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Boursin Salmon!

How to Serve Baked Boursin Salmon

Baked Boursin Salmon is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Accompany with Fresh Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté fresh spinach with garlic for a nutritious side.

Pair with a Refreshing Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Combine mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Offer a classic Caesar salad topped with croutons and parmesan for added flavor.

Add Some Starch

• Quinoa Pilaf: Cook quinoa with vegetable broth, herbs, and vegetables for a filling side.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.

How to Perfect Baked Boursin Salmon

To achieve the best results when making Baked Boursin Salmon, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your salmon turns out flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh salmon fillets to enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Monitor the cooking time closely; salmon should be flaky but not dry.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different herbs or spices to the cheese mixture for variety.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Boursin Salmon

Complementing your Baked Boursin Salmon with well-chosen side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with garlic and herbs pairs wonderfully with salmon.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Lemon Couscous: Flavored with lemon juice and zest, couscous delivers a bright touch alongside the fish.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized add sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory salmon.
6. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that is lower in carbs but still satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Boursin Salmon, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland salmon. Always season well for maximum flavor.
• Overbaking: Cooking the salmon too long dries it out. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for flakiness.
• Ignoring thickness: Not accounting for fillet thickness may result in uneven cooking. Adjust baking time according to the size of your salmon pieces.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the salmon immediately after baking can make it lose moisture. Let it rest briefly for juiciness.
• Neglecting garnishes: Forgetting fresh herbs or lemon can diminish presentation and flavor. Always add a garnish to enhance both.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Boursin Salmon in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Boursin Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Baked Boursin Salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Boursin Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm wrapped salmon for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Boursin Salmon?

Baked Boursin Salmon is a flavorful dish featuring salmon fillets topped with creamy Boursin cheese mixed with garlic and herbs, baked until tender.

How long does it take to make Baked Boursin Salmon?

This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Boursin?

Yes, you can experiment with cream cheese or goat cheese if you’re looking for alternatives while keeping similar flavors.

Is there a way to customize Baked Boursin Salmon?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes under the salmon before baking for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baked Boursin Salmon is not only easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that satisfy any palate. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different herbs or vegetables, making it perfect for any dinner occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal!