Baked Boursin Salmon: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Baked Boursin Salmon: Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy! Imagine flaky, succulent salmon infused with the creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous flavors of Boursin cheese. It’s a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

While salmon itself boasts a rich history as a staple food in many cultures, particularly among indigenous communities along the Pacific Northwest, the addition of Boursin cheese brings a touch of French elegance to the table. Boursin, with its signature blend of garlic, herbs, and creamy cheese, was first created in Normandy, France, in 1957 by François Boursin. It quickly gained popularity for its unique flavor profile and versatility, becoming a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide.

What makes Baked Boursin Salmon so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of simplicity and sophistication. The richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy, savory notes of the Boursin, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The creamy Boursin keeps the salmon incredibly moist and flavorful, eliminating any worries about dry or overcooked fish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. So, let’s dive in and discover how to create this delectable dish!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference!)
• 1 Boursin cheese wheel (5.2 oz), any flavor
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional sides: Roasted asparagus, quinoa, rice, or your favorite vegetables

Preparing the Salmon:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for ensuring the salmon cooks evenly and beautifully.
2. Prepare the baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. You can also lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray for extra insurance.
3. Prepare the salmon fillet. Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and allows the salmon to develop a nice crust.
4. Season the salmon. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it really enhances the flavor of the salmon.

Creating the Boursin Topping:

1. Soften the Boursin cheese. If your Boursin cheese is cold from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to spread. You can also microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it completely.
2. Prepare the herb mixture. In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all the flavors.
3. Combine Boursin and herbs. Gently mix the softened Boursin cheese with the herb mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain some of the texture of the cheese.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Spread the Boursin mixture. Evenly spread the Boursin cheese mixture over the top of the salmon fillet. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the salmon for maximum flavor.
2. Arrange the lemon slices. Arrange the thinly sliced lemon slices over the Boursin cheese topping. The lemon will infuse the salmon with a bright, citrusy flavor as it bakes.
3. Bake the salmon. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillet. A good rule of thumb is to bake it for about 6-8 minutes per inch of thickness.
4. Check for doneness. To check if the salmon is done, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and gently twist. If the salmon flakes easily, it’s ready. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving Suggestions:

1. Let it rest. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful salmon.
2. Garnish (optional). Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve immediately. Serve the baked Boursin salmon immediately while it’s still warm and delicious.
4. Pair with sides. This baked Boursin salmon pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Some of my favorites include roasted asparagus, quinoa, rice, steamed green beans, or a simple salad.
5. Wine pairing. For a delightful wine pairing, consider a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine will complement the richness of the salmon and the flavors of the Boursin cheese.

Tips and Variations:

• Skin on or off? You can bake the salmon with the skin on or off, depending on your preference. If you’re baking it with the skin on, you can crisp up the skin by broiling it for a minute or two at the end of the cooking time. Just be sure to watch it carefully to prevent it from burning.
• Boursin flavor variations. Feel free to experiment with different flavors of Boursin cheese. The Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor is a classic choice, but you can also try the Cracked Black Pepper flavor for a little extra spice or the Shallot & Chive flavor for a more delicate taste.
• Add vegetables. You can add vegetables to the baking sheet along with the salmon for a complete one-pan meal. Some good options include asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the baking sheet.
• Make it ahead. You can prepare the Boursin cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake the salmon, simply spread the mixture over the salmon fillet and bake as directed.
• Spice it up. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Boursin cheese mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the salmon before baking.
• Lemon zest. Add lemon zest to the Boursin mixture for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Other herbs. Experiment with other fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Garlic lovers. If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra clove or two of minced garlic to the Boursin cheese mixture.
• Broiling for extra color. For a more golden-brown top, broil the salmon for the last minute or two of cooking time, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g

Enjoy your delicious and easy Baked Boursin Salmon!

Conclusion:

This Baked Boursin Salmon recipe isn’t just another fish dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, the creamy, garlicky, herby Boursin cheese melts into the salmon, creating a sauce so decadent and delicious, you’ll want to lick the pan clean (and I won’t judge if you do!). It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still craving something special. Plus, it’s elegant enough to serve to guests – imagine the impressed looks when you present this beautiful, flavorful salmon!

I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates simple salmon to a whole new level. The Boursin cheese infuses the fish with so much flavor that you barely need any other seasonings. It’s a foolproof way to cook salmon perfectly every time, ensuring it’s moist, tender, and never dry. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor?

But the best part is how versatile this recipe is! While I love serving it with a side of roasted asparagus and quinoa for a complete and healthy meal, the possibilities are endless. You could also pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, a vibrant green salad, or even some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious Boursin sauce.

Looking for variations? Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the salmon before baking for a touch of brightness. Or, sprinkle some chopped fresh dill or parsley on top after it’s cooked for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Another fantastic option is to use different flavors of Boursin cheese – the shallot and chive variety would be absolutely divine! You could also experiment with adding some chopped vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or zucchini, to the baking dish alongside the salmon.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Baked Boursin Salmon recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. It’s the kind of dish that will become a regular in your dinner rotation, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a salmon fillet, a package of Boursin cheese, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And when you do try it, please, please, please come back and let me know what you think! I’m dying to hear about your experience and any variations you might have tried. Share your photos, your tips, and your honest opinions in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I’m sure you will find this recipe to be a new favorite. Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps others discover this amazing dish.

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