Baked Boursin Salmon Fillets

Picture this: A quiet evening, the aroma of fresh herbs filling the air, and a perfectly flaky piece of salmon practically melting in your mouth. It’s not a dream – it’s the reality of this Baked Boursin Salmon Fillets recipe. I stumbled upon this method when I needed a quick yet impressive dinner for unexpected guests.

The creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese elevates the salmon from simple to sublime, and the entire dish comes together in under 20 minutes. This is a recipe everyone will love, from busy weeknight dinners to elegant weekend brunches! Its simplicity will surprise even the most seasoned cooks. Think you’re not a fish person? This recipe just might change your mind!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Ready in under 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
• Incredibly flavorful – the creamy Boursin cheese and fresh herbs infuse the salmon with a rich, savory taste.
• Flaky and tender – the baking method ensures perfectly cooked salmon every time.
• Versatile – serve it for a quick family dinner or an elegant brunch.
• Uses simple ingredients – no fancy techniques or hard-to-find items required.
• A great way to introduce fish to picky eaters.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Salmon Fillets: The star of the show! Look for fillets that are bright pink, firm, and have a fresh, clean scent. Skin-on or skinless works, but skin-on will give you a richer flavor and keep the salmon more moist during baking. Aim for roughly six-ounce fillets.
• Boursin Cheese: This creamy, garlic-and-herb cheese is what makes this dish so special. You can find it in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores. Original Boursin is what I recommend, but you can experiment with different flavors like shallot & chive for a unique twist.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives adds a burst of freshness and visual appeal. Fresh is best, but in a pinch, you can use dried herbs (use about 1/3 the amount of fresh).
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil helps to keep the salmon moist and adds a subtle fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is always my choice in almost any recipe.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juiceBrightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the Boursin.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper or Foil
• Small Bowl
• Spoon or Spatula
• Lemon Zester or Microplane (optional, but recommended for zesting the lemon)

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fillet.
3. Drizzle each fillet with a little olive oil.
4. In a small bowl, soften the Boursin cheese with a fork. This will make it easier to spread.
5. Evenly spread the softened Boursin cheese over the top of each salmon fillet.
6. Sprinkle the Boursin-topped salmon with fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives).
7. Zest a little lemon over each fillet.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
9. If you want a more golden appearance, broil the salmon for the last minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute or two before serving.
11. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh herbs.
12. Enjoy your delicious Baked Boursin Salmon Fillets!

Pro Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook the salmon! It’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked than overcooked, as the salmon will continue to cook slightly after you take it out of the oven.
• Soften the Boursin cheese before spreading for easier application.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• If you’re using frozen salmon, thaw it completely before baking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your Baked Boursin Salmon.
• A squeeze of lemon juice after baking brightens up the flavors even more.

Variations & Dietary Swaps:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure to check the label on your Boursin cheese (though most are).
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Combine with garlic powder, dried herbs and a pinch of salt to mimic the flavor of Boursin (will not provide the same texture).
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Boursin cheese for a spicy kick.
• Seasonal: In the summer, top with fresh garden tomatoes and basil for seasonal flair. Include a finely diced bell pepper for some added texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or green beans, a side of your favorite baked potato and a crisp salad for a healthy and complete meal.
• Fluffy quinoa or couscous makes a great base to soak up the cheesy Boursin sauce.
• Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh herbs.

Storage & Reheating:

Store leftover Baked Boursin Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it.

Frequently Asked Questions:

This Baked Boursin Salmon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and easy to make. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Now it’s time to head to the kitchen and make your own mouthwatering Baked Boursin Salmon Fillets!

Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to tag @CulinaryCravingcom on social media when you share your culinary creations! What are your favorite sides to serve with salmon?

Related Recipes:

• Garlic Herb Roasted Shrimp: Another quick and easy seafood dish bursting with flavor, perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: A classic and comforting dish that’s always a hit, also ready in about the same amount of time as the salmon.
• Creamy Tomato and Spinach Florentine Pasta: For a non-seafood-based main, this pairs well as a hearty and rich complement to the freshness of Baked Boursin Salmon Fillets.