Name: Bacon Jam Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Whole salmon filet (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds, skin on); Extra virgin olive oil; Paprika; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Kosher salt; Black pepper; Onion bacon jam; Fresh parsley; Fresh chives

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When you first step into the kitchen and catch a whiff of sizzling bacon, it’s an aroma that instantly wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Imagine the tender, flaky salmon slathered with a luscious bacon jam, glistening as it emerges from the oven, promising a bite that blends savory and sweet perfectly. This Bacon Jam Salmon elevates a simple dinner into an experience that your family will remember. There’s something so heartwarming about a homemade meal shared around the table—especially when it’s this mouthwatering. Picture your loved ones gathered, forks in hand, ready for a delightful feast that brings together the best of land and sea.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Bacon Jam Salmon
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Bacon Jam Salmon

The inspiration for this dish came from a cozy evening spent with friends, sharing stories and laughter over a plate of baked salmon. I remember how we marveled at the layers of flavor, highlighting both the rich bacon and the delicate salmon. It’s the sort of meal that makes you feel at home, no matter the season. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into crafting this irresistible Bacon Jam Salmon together; it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory combination from the bacon jam enhances the salmon in the most delightful way.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Just imagine a beautifully glazed salmon filet that’s as tasty as it looks.
Flexible Serving: Whether for a casual family dinner or a dinner party, this dish impresses every time.
Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit gluten-free needs with careful ingredient choices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whole salmon filet (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds, skin on): This is the star of our dish. Choose a fresh filet for the best texture. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its flavor, but farmed can work as well.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used to keep the salmon moist and help the spices adhere. You can replace this with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color. Smoked paprika can be a fun twist, providing a smoky depth.
Garlic powder & onion powder: These bring an aromatic base to our dish. Fresh garlic can be substituted, but the powders mix better into the jam.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors. Sea salt can be a good alternative, but use sparingly, as it’s saltier.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount.
Onion bacon jam: This is where the magic happens; it’s the sweet and savory glaze that transforms the salmon. Store-bought works, but homemade adds an extra touch.
Fresh parsley & chives: For garnish, these not only beautify the dish but also add fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Bacon Jam Salmon

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by positioning your oven rack in the center and preheating it to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray. This ensures an easy release of the salmon once it’s baked, preventing any sticky mishaps as you dish it up.

Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon filet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. With a paper towel, pat the surface of the salmon dry; this helps the olive oil and spices stick better. Drizzle a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over the salmon’s surface, using your hands or a brush to spread it evenly, ensuring a nice sheen and moisture for baking.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This blend will not only season the salmon beautifully but will also interact wonderfully with the bacon jam to create a complex flavor profile. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the salmon, gently pressing it into the surface to get it to stick.

Spread the Bacon Jam: Spoon a generous cup of onion bacon jam over the top of the salmon filet. Using the back of your spoon—or an offset spatula if you have one—spread the jam into a thin, even layer across the entire filet, reaching all the edges. This will create a caramelized crust as it bakes, delivering that incredible sweet-savory balance.

Bake to Perfection: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for the thickest part of the salmon to flake easily with a fork but still retain a slight sheen. For those who love their salmon medium, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F; it’s perfectly melt-in-your-mouth at this point.

Rest and Garnish: Once baked, carefully remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives for a pop of color and freshness that perfectly complement the richness of the bacon jam.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Bacon Jam Salmon, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, checking regularly to prevent overcooking. While the texture may change a bit, a sprinkle of fresh herbs can rejuvenate the flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking: Salmon can quickly become dry. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, and use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness.
Use room temperature ingredients: If possible, let your salmon come to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
Make your bacon jam ahead: Bacon jam can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier by the time you’re ready to use it.
Fresh seasoning: If you have fresh herbs like dill or tarragon, feel free to chop them up for a fresh, herbal finish.
Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! A drizzle of balsamic glaze post-baking can elevate the flavors even further.

When you combine the clean flavors of salmon with the sweet, savory goodness of bacon jam, magic happens. It’s a dish that is not only satisfying but is also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fancy gathering, Bacon Jam Salmon impresses without a doubt. Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors, add your twist, and make this dish your own. Enjoy every mouthful!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen salmon, just make sure to thoroughly thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This helps maintain its texture, allowing it to cook evenly when you bake it.

What can I serve with Bacon Jam Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad. The balance of flavors works with numerous accompaniments.

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The best way to check for doneness is to look for the salmon to flake easily at its thickest part with a fork. For perfect medium salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, and remember that it will continue to cook slightly once it’s out of the oven.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the bacon jam ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the salmon and top with the jam just before baking to keep everything fresh and delicious!