Baked Boursin Salmon: Cheesy, Dreamy, Easy Weeknight Dinner!
Baked Boursin Salmon offers a cheesy, dreamy dish that turns a regular weeknight dinner into something extraordinary. With the creamy flavor of Boursin cheese and the rich taste of salmon, this recipe is quick to prepare and brings a delightful twist to your dinner table.
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This Baked Boursin Salmon is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. The creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese pairs perfectly with the flaky salmon, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. Not only is it easy to make, but it also looks elegant enough for guests. Plus, the fewer dishes to wash afterward make it a winner for busy weeknights!
How to Make Baked Boursin Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 Salmon Fillets (6-8 oz each)
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin Cheese, Garlic & Fine Herbs
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Zest
- 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Dill, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
- Optional: 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- Optional: 1 bunch Asparagus Spears, trimmed
- Optional: Extra Lemon Wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. - Prepare Salmon Fillets
Gently rinse salmon fillets under cold water, then pat them very dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior. - Season Salmon
Place patted-dry salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then rub over the fillets. Generously sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. - Prepare Fresh Aromatics
Finely mince 2 cloves garlic. Finely grate 1 teaspoon lemon zest, avoiding the white pith. Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Finely chop 2 tablespoons fresh dill and 1 tablespoon fresh parsley. - Soften Boursin Cheese
If Boursin cheese is cold, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes to soften for easier mixing and spreading. - Craft the Boursin Topping
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the entire package of softened Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese with the minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped dill, and parsley. - Mix Topping Until Smooth
Using a fork or spatula, thoroughly mix all ingredients with the Boursin until wonderfully smooth and evenly distributed, creating the star creamy, herbaceous mixture. - Apply Boursin Topping
Dollop a generous spoonful of the Boursin mixture onto the top of each seasoned salmon fillet. Gently spread it evenly over the entire top surface, aiming for a nice, thick layer. - Add Optional Vegetables (If Using)
If using, scatter cherry tomatoes around the salmon and arrange trimmed asparagus spears on the baking sheet. Drizzle vegetables with a tiny bit more olive oil, salt, and pepper if desired. - Bake Salmon
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven, placing it on the middle rack. - Bake Until Cooked Through
Bake for approximately 12-18 minutes, depending on salmon thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque pink throughout. The Boursin topping should be melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges. Avoid overcooking. - Optional Broiler for Crispiness
For an extra golden and bubbly topping, briefly switch the oven to broiler setting on high for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. - Rest the Salmon
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the salmon rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for a moister, more tender fillet. - Garnish and Serve
Transfer salmon to serving plates. Garnish with extra fresh dill/parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a final squeeze of brightness. Pair with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. - Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven to prevent drying out.
How to Serve Baked Boursin Salmon
Baked Boursin Salmon is the ultimate centerpiece for any meal. Serve it alongside grilled asparagus or a fresh garden salad for a vibrant and nutritious dinner. For something more filling, pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad. This dish’s appealing presentation also makes it perfect for entertaining guests. Don’t forget to offer extra lemon wedges for those who love a zesty touch!
How to Store Baked Boursin Salmon
To store leftovers, place the salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in the microwave or a low oven to keep it moist and tasty. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the delicious texture and flavor.
Tips to Make Baked Boursin Salmon Perfect
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that are vibrant in color and have a clean smell.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing the salmon to rest after cooking enhances the moisture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the amount of herbs and lemon based on your taste preferences.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Salmon is fully cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Flavor Variations
Baked Boursin Salmon is versatile, and there are many ways to put your twist on it. Consider swapping Boursin Cheese with a different flavored cream cheese or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. You could also use different herbs based on your preference, such as basil or thyme, for a unique flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a Fish Spatula: A fish spatula makes serving the salmon easier and prevents it from breaking apart.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give your salmon and vegetables enough space on the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Experiment with Sides: Try serve it with wild rice or a lemon-herb couscous for a delightful combination.
FAQs About Baked Boursin Salmon
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. If you do, make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best results. Ensure they are dried well before seasoning and baking.
2. Can I prepare Boursin topping ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the Boursin topping a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the salmon.
3. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, Baked Boursin Salmon is perfect for meal prep! You can cook multiple salmon fillets at once and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Baked Boursin Salmon is not only easy to make but also brings a restaurant-quality dish into your home. The creamy Boursin cheese and perfectly baked salmon create a mouthwatering combination that appeals to everyone. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite in your meal rotation!
Baked Boursin Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Gently rinse salmon fillets under cold water, then pat them very dry with paper towels.
- Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then rub over the fillets. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Mince the garlic, grate the lemon zest, squeeze the lemon juice, and chop the dill and parsley.
- Let the Boursin cheese soften for 15-20 minutes if cold.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened Boursin cheese with garlic, lemon zest, dill, and parsley.
- Mix until smooth and evenly distributed.
- Dollop the Boursin mixture onto each salmon fillet and spread evenly.
- If using, scatter cherry tomatoes and arrange asparagus around the salmon, drizzling with more olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 12-18 minutes or until salmon flakes with a fork and the topping is golden brown. Overcooking should be avoided.
- For a crispier topping, switch to the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
- Let the salmon rest for about 5 minutes before transferring to serving plates. Garnish with extra dill/parsley and serve with lemon wedges.