Baked salmon with avocado mash is like a culinary hug, brimming with flavor and warmth. Imagine the flaky, tender salmon fillet, perfectly baked to golden perfection, paired with creamy avocado that melts in your mouth. It’s a dish that dances on your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.
I remember the first time I shared this recipe with friends during a cozy dinner party. Their reactions were priceless as they devoured every last bite, and we couldn’t stop raving about the combination of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fancy gathering or simply treating yourself on a casual weeknight, this dish promises to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked salmon with avocado mash is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors of the salmon combined with creamy avocado create a deliciously satisfying meal
- Its vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with various sides or over salads
Friends often tell me how they can’t get enough of this dish at gatherings; it’s become my go-to crowd-pleaser.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright pink fillets with minimal browning for the best quality.
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Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they should be creamy and flavorful.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully—bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth and aroma; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of both the salmon and avocado.
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Salt and Pepper: These staples elevate all the other flavors—don’t skimp on seasoning!
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Cilantro (Optional): Fresh cilantro adds a zesty touch if you’re feeling adventurous—it’s like a party in your mouth!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and develops that beautiful golden crust.
Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place your salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish. The oil helps prevent sticking and adds flavor as it bakes.
Season the salmon: Drizzle olive oil over your fillets, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to add any additional herbs or spices you love; I sometimes toss on some paprika for an extra kick!
Bake until flaky: Pop the baking dish in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has turned a lovely pinkish color throughout.
While it’s baking, prepare avocado mash: In a bowl, scoop out your ripe avocados and mash them until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture. Add fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serve it up: Once your salmon is ready, plate it alongside a generous scoop of avocado mash. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped cilantro for an added pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy every bite: Grab your fork and dig into this heavenly combination! Pair it with some roasted veggies or quinoa for a complete meal that will have everyone singing praises.
And there you have it—baked salmon with avocado mash! An easy yet impressive meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household too!
You Must Know
- Baked salmon with avocado mash is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug!
- The creamy avocado and tender salmon blend together, creating a dish that pleases the senses
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Season the salmon, bake it for 15-20 minutes, and prepare the avocado mash while it cooks for perfect timing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the avocado with guacamole or add lime juice for an extra zing. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also elevate the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality salmon for better flavor and freshness; frozen salmon works too!
- Always check for doneness with a fork—salmon should flake easily
- Don’t skip seasoning; it makes all the difference in enhancing flavors
Sharing this recipe has become a favorite among my friends; nothing beats their smiles when they taste this delightful dish!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for baked salmon with avocado mash?
Yes, frozen salmon works well! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
What can I substitute for avocado in this recipe?
You might try Greek yogurt or hummus as alternatives if you’re not an avocado fan.
How do I know when my salmon is cooked perfectly?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.
Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of baked salmon paired with creamy avocado mash. This dish features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and served alongside a luscious avocado mix that melts in your mouth. Perfect for both elegant gatherings and casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 fresh salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon; season generously with salt and pepper (add paprika if desired).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- While baking, scoop out avocados into a bowl; mash until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Stir in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Serve the baked salmon with a generous scoop of avocado mash; garnish with cilantro if using.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with avocado mash (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, try substituting avocado with guacamole or lime juice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.