This Baked Boursin Salmon is a true treat! It features tender salmon fillets topped with creamy Boursin cheese, giving it an extra burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Seriously, who knew salmon could be this fancy and easy? I love serving it with a side of veggies for a complete meal. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, try other fatty fish like trout or even cod for a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Boursin Cheese: This flavored cheese is what makes the dish special. If you don’t have Boursin, you can use cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs. This gives a similar creamy and flavorful effect.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds healthy fats and flavor, but you can use melted butter or even avocado oil if you prefer.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice works in a pinch, or you can skip it altogether if you prefer a subtler taste.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right can be a bit tricky, but here are some simple tips!
- Preheating the oven is crucial. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly from the start.
- The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Check it after 12 minutes, and if it’s not quite there, give it a couple more minutes.
- Broiling adds a lovely golden color. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Trust your instincts, and with a little practice, you’ll nail this every time. Enjoy your dinner!
How to Make Baked Boursin Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil
For the Boursin Cheese Mixture:
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Boursin Salmon takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them cook better and get that nice crisp on the outside. Place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet—it’s time for them to shine!
3. Season the Fillets:
Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon fillets. Make sure each fillet gets a nice coating! Now, sprinkle some salt, black pepper, and your Italian seasoning (or your chosen herbs) on top to bring out all those wonderful flavors.
4. Mix the Boursin Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the Boursin cheese with the minced garlic and lemon juice until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. This is the star of the show!
5. Top the Salmon:
Spread a generous dollop of that creamy Boursin mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—make sure every bit of salmon is covered! It will melt and create a delicious topping while it bakes.
6. Bake the Salmon:
Now, pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is opaque and tender.
7. Optional Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you like a little extra color on top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The cheese will turn nice and golden!
8. Finishing Touches:
Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and add some lemon slices for a fresh pop. It looks beautiful and tasty!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Baked Boursin Salmon immediately, paired with steamed or roasted asparagus or your favorite sides. Good luck trying not to eat it all at once!
Enjoy the creamy, herby topping combined with the moist, tender salmon! This dish is sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Boursin cheese, try using cream cheese mixed with herbs, goat cheese, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Each will give a delicious twist to the dish!
What Can I Serve with Baked Boursin Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. You could also serve it over rice or with a side salad for a complete meal!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the salmon and top it with the Boursin mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in the oven at a low temperature or gently microwave it until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook!
