Bacon Jam Salmon
The aroma of baked salmon drifts through the kitchen, enveloping you in a warm embrace as the savory notes of bacon jam mingle with the tender fish. It’s a delightful fusion that promises not just a meal, but an experience—a sensory journey featuring rich flavors and inviting textures. Imagine a beautiful salmon filet, crowned with a luscious glaze of sweet and smoky bacon jam, its golden edges crisping just enough to contrast with the moist, flaky interior. Dinner becomes a feast for the senses, where each bite tells a story of indulgence.
Table of Contents
I remember the first time I tried Bacon Jam Salmon; it was during a cozy family gathering. My uncle had surprised us all with this unexpected twist on a classic salmon dish. As the first bite hit my palate, I knew I had found a new favorite. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from celebratory dinners to weeknight meals that deserve a little extra flair. I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure; let’s make your own unforgettable Bacon Jam Salmon!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner on the table in about half an hour—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich bacon jam and perfectly seasoned salmon creates a sweet-savory explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: This dish looks as good as it tastes! The contrast of the deep pink salmon with the glossy bacon jam makes it a striking centerpiece for any table.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or as a delightful main course during a casual weekend brunch.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice. Plus, you can easily swap out the bacon jam for a vegan alternative if desired.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Whole Salmon Filet (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds, skin on): Fresh seafood is key, so look for wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen is a great option—just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A good-quality olive oil adds richness and promotes crispiness without overpowering the dish. Feel free to substitute with melted butter or avocado oil.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): This spice provides a warm color and a mild smokiness. Smoked paprika can offer an even deeper flavor.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): A classic seasoning that complements salmon beautifully. Fresh minced garlic can be used instead, but reduce the amount to one clove to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): This adds depth to the dish without any of the crunch that chopped onions would bring.
- Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing flavors, kosher salt is preferred because it’s less salty than table salt.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Freshly cracked provides a better flavor compared to pre-ground. Adjust to taste for spice.
- Onion Bacon Jam (1 cup): The star of the show! Homemade or store-bought, this sweet and savory condiment takes the salmon to a new level.
- Fresh Parsley and Chives (for garnish): These herbs not only add a pop of color but also freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
How to Make Bacon Jam Salmon
Preheat and Prepare: Start by positioning your oven rack in the center and preheating it to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the salmon doesn’t stick.
Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon filet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Using a paper towel, pat the surface of the salmon to dry it thoroughly; this helps to achieve a crispy finish. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, then use your hands or a brush to evenly coat the entire surface, allowing the seasonings to adhere better.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this blend evenly over the salmon, pressing gently into the flesh to lock in the flavors.
Spread the Bacon Jam: Grab that delicious onion bacon jam and spoon it generously over the top of the salmon. With the back of a spoon or an offset spatula, spread it into a thin, even layer that covers the filet from edge to edge. This will create a beautiful glaze as it bakes!
Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon is done when the thickest part flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 130°F for medium doneness. The edges should begin to caramelize, creating a tempting aroma.
Rest and Garnish: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for about 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist bite. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives for an herbaceous touch.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Bacon Jam Salmon, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container, where it will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible; it’s best used within 3 months. When reheating, simply warm it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through, though keep in mind the texture may soften slightly. Refresh the flavor by topping it with more bacon jam before serving.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the salmon! It should still be slightly opaque in the center when removed from the oven.
- Let your salmon come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this helps it cook evenly.
- You can double the spice rub for a more pronounced flavor profile if you’re feeling adventurous.
- If the bacon jam is too thick, you can microwave it for a few seconds to loosen it up before spreading it on the salmon.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; just store the ingredients separately and assemble them right before cooking.
Using his recipe for Bacon Jam Salmon, you’ll be creating a memorable dish that captivates both your taste buds and your loved ones. The sweet, smoky glaze paired with tender salmon creates a delightfully sumptuous experience that’s not only nourishing but also visually stunning. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this dish checks all the boxes!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make my own bacon jam?
Absolutely! Homemade bacon jam is quite simple. Just cook chopped bacon until crispy, then sauté onions and garlic in the bacon fat. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar, simmering until thick. Cool before using, and it keeps beautifully in the fridge!
What should I serve with Bacon Jam Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. For a healthier option, steamed asparagus or quinoa salad works great, too!
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes! While salmon is a fantastic choice due to its rich flavor, you can substitute with other fish like trout or Arctic char. Just remember to adjust cooking times, as they may vary based on thickness.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
The recipe is already gluten-free as long as you ensure your bacon jam is made without any gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels when using store-bought products to make sure they adhere to your dietary needs.
With each bite of your homemade Bacon Jam Salmon, you will discover a delightful interplay of flavors that transforms a regular dinner into something truly special. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!
More Dinner Recipes
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Bacon Jam Salmon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bacon Jam Salmon offers a delicious combination of tender salmon topped with sweet and smoky bacon jam. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal, from quick weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- Whole Salmon Filet (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds, skin on)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- Paprika (½ teaspoon)
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
- Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
- Onion Bacon Jam (1 cup)
- Fresh Parsley and Chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Place the salmon filet skin-side down on the baking sheet and pat dry.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and coat evenly.
- Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; sprinkle over the salmon.
- Spread bacon jam generously over the salmon filet.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.
- Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes and garnish with parsley and chives.
Notes
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Ensure salmon is slightly opaque in the center when cooked to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
