Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Baked Boursin Salmon! This dish is a total game changer for anyone looking for something quick yet fancy. I love how incredibly simple it is to prepare, and the flavor? Wow! The creamy Boursin cheese melts beautifully over the tender salmon, creating a rich and delicious topping that elevates the whole meal. I often whip this up when I’m short on time but still want to impress my family or friends. Trust me, once you try this Baked Boursin Salmon, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s a delightful combination that never fails to please!
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets: Fresh or frozen, but I always prefer fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup Boursin cheese: The star of the show! Choose your favorite flavor, though the garlic & herb version is my go-to.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps the seasoning stick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Just a little extra garlic goodness to enhance that creamy cheese.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: For a bit of spice! Feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- 1 lemon, sliced: The fresh citrus brightens up the dish and adds a beautiful touch when baked.
How to Prepare Baked Boursin Salmon Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze later, and trust me, you’ll thank yourself for it! Once the oven is ready, you’ll be all set to start cooking.
Assemble the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to get your salmon fillets on that baking sheet. Place them skin-side down—this helps keep the fish moist. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over each fillet; it really brings out the flavor. Then, the star of the show, the Boursin cheese! Spread a generous amount evenly over each piece of salmon. Don’t be shy, let that creamy goodness shine! After that, sprinkle on the garlic powder and black pepper. The garlic powder adds just the right amount of punch, while the pepper gives it a nice little kick. Finally, layer those beautiful lemon slices on top to brighten everything up.
Baking Process
Okay, now we’re ready to bake! Slide that baking sheet into the oven and let it work its magic for about 20-25 minutes. The key here is to keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. If it’s still a bit translucent in the middle, give it a few more minutes but don’t let it overcook; dry salmon is a sad salmon! Once it’s perfect, pull it out and let it rest for a minute before serving. Get ready for an incredible meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just about 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich flavor: The creamy Boursin cheese combined with tender salmon delivers an explosion of taste that’s sure to impress.
- Healthy ingredients: With fresh salmon and simple seasonings, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish! It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters can’t resist.
- Versatile: You can easily pair it with veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate. Check out this Greek pasta salad for a great side!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Baked Boursin Salmon turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips for you! First up, always choose high-quality salmon. Fresh is best if you can swing it—frozen works too, but make sure it’s properly thawed beforehand. Trust me, you’ll taste the difference!
Next, don’t skip the olive oil drizzle! It not only adds flavor but also helps the cheese melt beautifully and stick to the fish. Speaking of cheese, don’t be shy with that Boursin! A generous layer really takes this dish to the next level. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
Another important tip is to keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check the salmon a couple of minutes early to prevent overcooking. You want it to be flaky but still moist. If you’re unsure, use a fork to test for doneness; it should easily flake apart. And don’t forget to let it rest for a minute after baking! This helps the juices redistribute and keeps your salmon deliciously tender.
Lastly, serve it fresh! This dish is best enjoyed right out of the oven. But if you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember, reheating gently in the microwave or oven can help maintain that creamy goodness without drying it out. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When you’re whipping up Baked Boursin Salmon, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional data per serving, based on one salmon fillet:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on standard servings, and they can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, you’ll find this dish is not only packed with flavor but also delivers a good dose of nutrients that make it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While Boursin cheese adds a unique creaminess, you can substitute it with other soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit!
What if I can’t find fresh salmon? No worries! You can definitely use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. They’ll still turn out delicious!
Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet? Yes! Feel free to toss some asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet with your salmon. They’ll roast beautifully in the same time as the fish.
What should I serve with Baked Boursin Salmon? This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or a hearty grain like quinoa or rice. You can’t go wrong! Try this quinoa cucumber salad for a refreshing side!
How do I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just gently reheat them in the microwave or oven to avoid drying out the salmon.
Can I make this ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare everything up to the baking step and cover it in the fridge for a few hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
Is this dish healthy? Yes! Baked Boursin Salmon is quite healthy, packed with protein and healthy fats. Plus, it’s low in carbs, making it a great option for a balanced meal! Learn more about the health benefits of salmon.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Baked Boursin Salmon, the options are endless! I love to create a well-rounded meal that complements the rich, creamy flavors of the salmon. One of my go-to sides is a fresh garden salad—crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette pair perfectly with the dish. You can even toss in some sliced cucumbers and avocado for added texture!
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try serving the salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. The grains soak up all the delicious flavors from the salmon, making each bite even more satisfying. And don’t forget about veggies! Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli are fantastic choices; they add a lovely pop of color and nutrients to your plate. You could even add some roasted potatoes drizzled with olive oil and herbs for a comforting touch.
Feeling a bit adventurous? Why not whip up a creamy garlic mashed potato? The creaminess will echo the Boursin cheese, making for a lovely harmony of flavors. Whatever you decide to serve alongside your Baked Boursin Salmon, just remember to have fun with it and enjoy the feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Baked Boursin Salmon and now you’re faced with leftovers? No problem! First, let’s talk about storage. Once the salmon has cooled down a bit, place any leftovers in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from sneaking in. You can safely store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options to keep that creamy goodness intact. If you have time, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to help keep it moist, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is the best way to maintain the juicy texture of the salmon without drying it out.
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop a fillet on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat it on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Remember, salmon can go from perfect to dry in a heartbeat, so keep an eye on it!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Baked Boursin Salmon even after the initial feast. Happy eating!
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Baked Boursin Salmon: 5 Steps to a Flavorful Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Baked Boursin Salmon is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender salmon with creamy Boursin cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup Boursin cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
- Spread Boursin cheese evenly on top of each fillet.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper over the cheese.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with vegetables or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Baked Boursin Salmon, salmon recipes, easy salmon dish