Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is one of those recipes that will impress your family and friends without taking up all your time in the kitchen. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. There’s something so satisfying about a well-cooked salmon fillet paired with creamy avocado mash — it’s a match made in heaven!

What makes this dish even better is that it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, Whole30, and low-carb. So whether you’re meal prepping for the week or trying to eat healthier, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices on the salmon and the creamy avocado mash create a delightful eating experience.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats and protein, this meal leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the avocado mash ahead of time for an even quicker dinner when you need it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be simple and fun! Here are the wholesome ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash. Most of them are likely already in your pantry!

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Avocado Mash

• 2 avocados (mashed)
• 1 lime zest (grated)
• 1 lime juice
• salt to taste
• chopped dill
• 1/2 red onion chopped

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try this recipe with trout or chicken breast for a different flavor profile.
• Add some greens: Serve over a bed of spinach or mixed greens for added crunch and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the avocado mash for an extra kick!
• Change the herbs: Use cilantro instead of dill if you’re looking for a fresh twist.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is essential because starting with a hot oven ensures that your salmon cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets on a baking dish. Sprinkle them generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper before drizzling them with olive oil. Each of these spices enhances the salmon’s natural flavors while adding depth.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked. You want that beautiful pink color inside! Baking keeps the fish moist and tender while allowing those spices to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Avocado Mash

While your salmon is baking, grab a bowl and mash those avocados! Grate in some lime zest and squeeze in fresh lime juice; these ingredients brighten up the dish. Add salt and chopped dill, then mix everything together until combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Once your salmon is baked to perfection, cover each fillet generously with the avocado mash mixture. Finish off by sprinkling some chopped red onion on top for added crunch and flavor.

And there you have it! A stunning Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash that’s not just easy but also sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon not only tastes better but also provides a more appealing texture. Look for fillets that are bright in color and moist, not dull or dry.
• Don’t over-season: While seasoning is essential, balance is key. Too much salt or spice can overpower the natural flavors of the salmon and avocado. Always start with less and adjust as needed.
• Use ripe avocados: To achieve a creamy and flavorful mash, make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe. They should yield slightly when pressed gently—this will ensure a smooth consistency.
• Allow for resting: After baking, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to switch up the herbs in your avocado mash! Fresh cilantro, basil, or parsley can add exciting new flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

Serving this Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash can be both fun and creative! Consider how you present the dish to enhance its vibrant colors and textures.

Garnishes

• Lime wedges: Adding fresh lime wedges on the side gives an extra zing that brightens up the flavors.
• Chopped microgreens: These delicate greens not only look beautiful but also add a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy avocado.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette is refreshing and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent complement to the salmon.
• Roasted asparagus: Simple yet elegant, roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt makes for a lovely side that adds both color and flavor to your plate.
• Sweet potato mash: Creamy sweet potato mash provides a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory salmon and rich avocado.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli sprinkled with sesame seeds adds crunch and is full of vitamins—perfect for balancing out this hearty meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh but also an excellent option for meal prep! Preparing this recipe in advance can save time during busy weeknights while still offering a nutritious, gourmet experience.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon and avocado mash separately in airtight containers.
• The salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The avocado mash should be consumed within 1-2 days to maintain its freshness and color. Adding lime juice helps prevent browning.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the salmon before cooking it for optimal texture. Wrap the uncooked salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• If you have cooked leftovers, they can be frozen as well, but the avocado mash should not be frozen as it doesn’t hold up well.

Reheating

• To reheat cooked salmon, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving the salmon, as this can make it rubbery. If reheating the avocado mash, do so gently on low heat or enjoy it cold.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash.

Can I use frozen salmon for Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash?

Absolutely! Just ensure that you thaw the frozen salmon completely before seasoning and baking. This will help achieve the best flavor and texture.

How do I make Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free! It uses avocados instead of cream or cheese to create a rich, creamy texture. Enjoy this delicious option without any animal-derived ingredients!

What can I serve with Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Quinoa or brown rice also make excellent sides, adding extra nutrients to your meal.

How long does it take to prepare Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash?

The total time for this recipe is just 20 minutes! With only 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash as delightful as I do! It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. I encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!