Imagine tender salmon nestled on a bed of roasted butternut squash, all dressed in a vibrant cranberry chutney that bursts with sweet-tart notes. Forget boring baked salmon recipe, this dish is a culinary dance party on your plate!
INGREDIENTS
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8oz each)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh ginger
- Pinch of ground cloves
RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 01- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Time to kick off this recipe symphony!
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- Let the aroma fill your kitchen with promise of a delicious baked salmon recipes to come!
STEP 02
- While the squash roasts, let's focus on the star of the show: the salmon! Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
STEP 03
- Combine the chopped pecans and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- This crunchy, spiced mixture will add texture and warmth to your dish, so get creative!
STEP 04
- Now, for the tangy heart of this baked salmon recipe: the cranberry chutney! In a small saucepan, combine the dried cranberries, apple cider vinegar, honey, ginger, and cloves.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and fragrant.
- Trust me, the aroma alone will have you searching for more baked salmon recipes to try with this chutney!
STEP 05
- Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, just until golden brown.
- Remember, we're not aiming for cooked-through yet – that's where the oven comes in for your baked salmon recipes!
STEP 06
- Assemble your masterpiece! Spread the roasted butternut squash onto plates, creating a bed for the salmon.
- Top each dollop of squash with a seared salmon fillet.
- Spoon the vibrant cranberry chutney over the salmon, letting it drizzle down onto the squash.
- This is the moment your baked salmon recipe comes alive with contrasting flavors!
STEP 07
- Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the salmon for a satisfyingly crunchy contrast in your baked salmon recipe.
- Transfer the plates to the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for a final touch of elegance, and voila! Your masterpiece is complete, ready to tantalize your taste buds.
PERSONAL RECIPE EXPERIENCE
This Baked Salmon with Butternut Squash and Cranberry Chutney recipe has become a go-to comfort food in my kitchen. The combination of sweet, caramelized squash, flaky salmon, and the tangy-sweet cranberry chutney is simply irresistible. It's a dish that impresses with minimal effort, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you're hosting a special gathering. Every time I serve it, my guests ask for the recipe!
EXTRA TIPS:
- For a smokier flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the pecan mixture.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a cooling, creamy counterpoint to the chutney.
- Leftovers? Flake the salmon and serve it over salad greens or toast for a quick and delicious lunch.
HEALTH BENEFITS
This recipe isn't just about indulgence, it's packed with goodness! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber. And the cranberries? They add a healthy dose of antioxidants and vitamins. So feel good about indulging in this baked salmon recipes, knowing you're nourishing your body and soul!
NOTE
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the size of your butternut squash cubes. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed for your perfect baked salmon recipe.
CONCLUSION
This Baked Salmon with Butternut Squash and Cranberry Chutney is more than just a baked salmon recipes, it's an invitation to savor the season's bounty. So gather your loved ones, fire up your oven, and let the dance of sweet and savory flavors begin!
For more baked salmon recipes like this: Have a quick look!