If you’re craving a dish that bursts with color, flavor, and a wonderful mix of textures, the Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals. This recipe blends tender, flaky salmon baked to perfection with a zesty, slightly sweet cranberry salsa that has just the right amount of crunch from toasted pecans. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and nutty notes that feels both elegant and inviting — ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare, making a beautiful impression without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a simple but crucial role in bringing out the best flavors and textures. From juicy salmon fillets to the fresh zing of citrus and the satisfying crunch of pecans, this combination is as delightful as it is straightforward.
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep the salmon moist and adds a subtle richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, refreshing tang to the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a gentle depth without overpowering the fish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme): Imparts an earthy, herbal note that complements the salmon perfectly.
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (or 1/2 cup cranberry sauce): Brings vibrant color and a tart sweetness to the salsa.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch to balance the salsa.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Infuses a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that lifts the salsa.
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup): Sweetens the salsa naturally, harmonizing with the tart cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds brightness and a mild acidic kick to the salsa.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: Provides a buttery crunch that adds wonderful texture contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the salsa): Helps bring all the salsa ingredients together smoothly.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, place your salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a breeze. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. A good squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top gives the salmon a subtle zing that brightens the whole dish. Set the seasoned fillets aside as you move on to the salsa.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry Salsa
In a medium bowl, gather your cranberries, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, honey, and lime juice. Using the back of a spoon, gently mash some of the cranberries to release their juices while leaving others whole for a nice pop of texture. Then, stir in the chopped pecans and an extra drizzle of olive oil. Taste and tweak the seasoning if needed — a bit more honey or lime juice can balance the tartness just right. This salsa is where the magic happens: vibrant, fresh, sweet, and nutty all at once.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Now it’s time to bake! Slide your prepared salmon fillets into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). The salmon should be moist and tender, perfectly complemented by the bright salsa you whipped up.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully plate each fillet. Heaping a generous spoonful of the cranberry salsa over the top adds a stunning pop of color and fresh flavor. For extra crunch and a nutty finish, sprinkle some more chopped pecans on top. This final step ties together all the textures and flavors beautifully, creating a dish that feels both special and welcoming.
How to Serve Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes not only add visual appeal but also deepen the freshness of the dish. A few sprigs of cilantro or thyme add a lovely herbal note, while a thin lemon or lime wedge on the side allows everyone to add a personal citrus kick. Toasted pecan halves scattered on the plate bring a gourmet touch and extra crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft salmon.
Side Dishes
Side dishes that complement this recipe should be light and fresh to balance the richness of the salmon and the zingy salsa. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are fantastic choices. Alternatively, a fluffy quinoa salad or a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette keeps the meal feeling bright and wholesome. The goal is to enhance the main flavors without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining or just want to elevate the presentation, consider serving the salmon over a bed of wild rice or herbed couscous. You could also use the cranberry salsa as a topping for crostini on the side for a fun appetizer twist. Using colorful plates or rustic wooden boards adds extra charm, making this recipe shine visually as well as in flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the cranberry salsa separate from the salmon if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor of both components.
Freezing
While salmon freezes well, the fresh cranberry salsa is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to its delicate texture. If you need to freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. Add the cranberry salsa fresh after reheating to enjoy its full burst of flavor and texture, keeping the dish tasting vibrant and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon before baking for even cooking. Pat the fillets dry to help the seasoning stick well and avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make the cranberry salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salsa up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving to brighten the flavors again.
What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
You can substitute fresh cranberries with cranberry sauce or dried cranberries soaked briefly in warm water. Just adjust the sweetness by reducing or omitting the honey if using sauce.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
To make a vegan-friendly version, substitute the salmon with a thick slice of tofu or a plant-based fish alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey in the salsa. The preparation method remains the same.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
Salmon is cooked perfectly when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should appear opaque and moist but not raw or overly dry.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans Recipe truly brings joy to the dinner table with its lively flavors and beautiful textures. It transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels both cozy and special, perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved favorite in your own kitchen — it’s that good!
Print
Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans is a vibrant and festive dish featuring tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a tangy, sweet-tart cranberry salsa mixed with crunchy pecans. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delightful blend of textures and fresh flavors that will brighten any dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
For the Cranberry Salsa
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (or 1/2 cup cranberry sauce if using pre-made)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the salsa)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare salmon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place the salmon fillets on it.
- Season the salmon: Drizzle the salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fillets and set aside.
- Make the cranberry salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, chopped red onion, cilantro, honey, and lime juice. Use the back of a spoon to lightly mash the cranberries, releasing some juice while leaving some whole for texture.
- Add pecans and oil: Stir in the chopped pecans and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.
- Bake the salmon: Place the prepared salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Assemble the dish: Remove the baked salmon from the oven and place each fillet on serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of the cranberry salsa over each fillet and sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for extra crunch.
- Serve immediately: Serve your baked salmon with cranberry salsa alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish!
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute salmon with firm tofu or a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup in place of honey.
- Fresh cranberries provide the best texture and brightness, but cranberry sauce can be used as a convenient shortcut.
- To make the salmon extra crispy, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Leftover cranberry salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the level of sweetness in the salsa by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.
