Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans

There’s something so elegant about baked salmon, especially when it’s topped with a vibrant, tangy cranberry salsa and crunchy pecans. This dish is an absolute showstopper, perfect for a festive dinner or a healthy weeknight treat. The flaky, tender salmon pairs beautifully with the tart sweetness of cranberries, and the toasted pecans add just the right amount of crunch. The flavors dance on your taste buds, making this one of those recipes you’ll want to come back to time and time again. Trust me—this combination is next level delicious, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans

Flavor Explosion:

The balance of sweet, tart, and savory is what makes this dish so incredible. The salmon is rich and flaky, while the cranberry salsa adds a refreshing burst of flavor. Add in the roasted pecans, and you’ve got a harmonious combination that feels fresh, exciting, and comforting all at once.

Quick and Easy:

Despite how fancy this looks and tastes, this recipe is super easy to pull off. It takes just a few ingredients and only about 25 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dinner that’s still impressive enough for special occasions.

Perfectly Balanced:

This dish hits all the right notes—a tender and flavorful protein, a sweet and tangy topping, and a satisfying crunch from the pecans. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, from the omega-3s in the salmon to the antioxidants in the cranberries. It’s as delicious as it is healthy!

Versatile:

This dish works equally well for a cozy dinner at home or as a showstopping entrée at a holiday meal. You can also adjust the salsa ingredients to suit your preferences—whether you like it sweeter or with a little kick from jalapeño!

Ingredients in Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this amazing dish to life:

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skin-on salmon fillets are perfect for this dish. They bake beautifully and stay juicy and tender.
• Olive Oil: To brush on the salmon before baking, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
• Garlic Powder: A simple seasoning that complements the richness of the salmon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the salmon and bringing out the natural flavors.
• Lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty touch to the dish. You’ll use both the juice and zest.

For the Cranberry Salsa:

• Fresh Cranberries: The star of the salsa! Fresh cranberries bring that tart sweetness we all love.
• Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
• Red Onion: Finely chopped, this adds a bit of sharpness to the salsa, balancing the sweetness.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous note to the salsa, making it even more refreshing.
• Jalapeño (Optional): For a little heat! If you like a spicy kick, add some finely chopped jalapeño.
• Lime Juice: To bring some acidity to the salsa, tying all the flavors together.

For the Pecans:

• Pecans: Toasted pecans add a nutty, buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the cranberry salsa. They also bring an extra layer of richness to the dish.
• Maple Syrup: A small drizzle of maple syrup enhances the flavor of the pecans, making them even more irresistible.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this gorgeous dish? Let’s dive into the steps:

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature to bake the salmon to perfection, giving it a golden, crispy top while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Prepare the Salmon:

Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fillets, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of freshness. Rub the seasoning evenly across the fillets to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Bake the Salmon:

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. Don’t overcook—the salmon should be tender and moist.

Make the Cranberry Salsa:

While the salmon is baking, prepare the cranberry salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, chopped red onion, cilantro, honey, lime juice, and optional jalapeño. Gently stir to combine, and taste to adjust sweetness or acidity to your liking. If the cranberries are a little too tart, add a little more honey.

Toast the Pecans:

In a small skillet, toast the pecans over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once they’re golden and fragrant, drizzle with a little maple syrup and stir to coat. This will make them extra delicious and crispy.

Assemble the Dish:

Once the salmon is baked, remove it from the oven and plate it. Spoon a generous amount of cranberry salsa over each fillet, and sprinkle with the toasted pecans. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrate: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 11g
Protein: 30g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 12%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 8%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans

This dish is so versatile, and you can pair it with all sorts of delicious sides:

Roasted Vegetables:

The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the freshness of the cranberry salsa and the richness of the salmon.

Mashed Potatoes:

For a comforting side, creamy mashed potatoes work perfectly. You can even add a little roasted garlic to them to bring out extra flavor.

Green Salad:

A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the salmon and keep the meal fresh.

Rice or Quinoa:

For a heartier side, serve the salmon with fluffy rice or quinoa. Both of these grains absorb the cranberry salsa and lemony flavors, making every bite delicious.

Additional Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: The key to perfectly cooked salmon is not overbaking it. Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your cranberry salsa on the sweeter side, add more honey. If you prefer it tart, reduce the honey and use extra lime juice.
• Try Other Nuts: While pecans add a lovely richness, you can also use toasted almonds or walnuts if you prefer.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make the cranberry salsa ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This will also give the flavors more time to meld together.

Q2: Can I use frozen salmon?
A2: Yes, frozen salmon works just as well as fresh! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before baking.

Q3: Can I make this dish without pecans?
A3: Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different topping, try using sunflower seeds or skipping the nuts entirely.

Q4: Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
A4: Yes! Grill the salmon on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Q5: How can I make the salsa spicier?
A5: If you like more heat, add extra jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salsa.

Q6: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A6: Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe, as they give the salsa a fresh, tangy bite. Dried cranberries can work, but they will make the salsa sweeter and less tart.

Q7: Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
A7: Yes! You can use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup for the pecans.

Q8: How do I store leftover salmon?
A8: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave.

Q9: Can I use a different nut in this recipe?
A9: Yes, feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture.

Q10: Can I add other fruits to the salsa?
A10: Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like diced apples, pears, or oranges to give the salsa a fun twist.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Cranberry Salsa and Pecans is the perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and want something a little special. The juicy, flaky salmon paired with the sweet, tart salsa and the crunchy toasted pecans makes every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a cozy dinner, this dish will leave everyone asking for the recipe. It’s simple to make but looks and tastes impressive—what’s not to love? Enjoy!

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