Name: Bacon Jam Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Whole Salmon Fillet (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

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The smoky aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with sweet onions fills the kitchen, pulling you in like a warm hug. As you walk in, the crackling sound of bacon jam caramelizing on top of salmon is nothing short of music to your ears. The sight of the beautiful, glistening salmon fillet, coated in a lustrous layer of bacon jam, brings an irresistible luster that promises a delightful dining experience. Each bite offers a fusion of savory richness that’s bound to create memories around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made Bacon Jam Salmon for my family during a cozy autumn evening; the way their faces lit up as they tasted it was pure magic. Perfect for celebrations or simply a weeknight treat, nothing beats the comforting embrace of this dish. Get ready to whip up something truly special!

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

You’re going to love how effortlessly delicious Bacon Jam Salmon can be. It’s quick to prepare, easy to love, and has the kind of flavor profile that leaves everyone clamoring for seconds. Plus, the visual appeal makes it perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself. Why not give it a try tonight?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking, you can enjoy this dish in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet and savory bacon jam over tender salmon will have your taste buds dancing.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The glossy layer of bacon jam makes this dish not just tasty but fun and visually stunning.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it for dinner, impress guests at a party, or serve as a special weekend treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets with the right ingredients or served with a salad for a light meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whole Salmon Fillet (2 to 2 ½ pounds, skin on): This is the heart of the dish. Look for a fresh fillet with bright, clear eyes if buying whole or choose a skin-on portion for extra flavor during cooking.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds healthy fat and moisture. Feel free to substitute melted butter for a richer flavor.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavor profile with a smoky essence. Smoked paprika can elevate the dish even more.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): For that aromatic touch. Fresh minced garlic can be used if you prefer a stronger punch.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): It provides a sweet, mellow flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bacon jam.
Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon): A must for enhancing all the flavors. If using table salt, reduce the amount slightly due to its finer grain.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and depth. Freshly cracked black pepper will yield the best results.
Onion Bacon Jam (1 cup): This is the star of the show, bringing an explosion of flavor. You can buy it or make your own for a personal touch.
Fresh Parsley and Chives: These vibrant garnishes add a fresh finish. Use whichever herbs you prefer or have on hand.

How to Make Bacon Jam Salmon

Preheat and Prepare: Position the oven rack in the center, then preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, giving it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray. This will help ensure your salmon edges don’t stick and come off cleanly when you’re ready to serve.

Prepare the Salmon: Place your salmon fillet skin-side down on the baking sheet. To ensure a lovely crust, pat the top of the salmon dry with a paper towel. This helps the oil and seasoning adhere better. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, using your hands or a brush to spread it evenly across the surface.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoned blend evenly over the salmon, pressing it gently into the surface to lock in those wonderful flavors.

Spread Bacon Jam: Spoon the luscious bacon jam over the salmon, spreading it out to form a thin, even layer across the entire fillet. Don’t skimp here! Let that glorious mixture seep into the salmon, creating a sweet and savory crust.

Bake to Perfection: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The salmon should be cooked until it gently flakes with a fork and, for those aiming for medium, reaches an internal temperature of 130°F. The edges may bubble slightly, providing that mouthwatering sight.

Rest and Garnish: Once removed from the oven, allow the salmon to rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Sprinkle some chopped parsley and chives over the top for an elegant finish and added freshness!

Storing & Reheating

After enjoying your Bacon Jam Salmon, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for even longer, freezing is a great option; just make sure it’s sealed tightly, and you can keep it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then gently heat them in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Keep in mind that while the flavors are still delicious, the texture of the salmon may change slightly after freezing; refreshing it with a squeeze of lemon can work wonders!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking your salmon by checking its doneness a minute or two before the expected time.
Ensure your salmon is at room temperature before starting; it cooks more evenly this way.
If you’re short on time, you can opt for store-bought bacon jam, but making your own is a fun and rewarding experience.
For extra flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a kick.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted veggies, offering a great balance to the richness of the salmon.

Imagine serving Bacon Jam Salmon at your next gathering—friends gathering around the table, laughter filling the air, and every bite bringing joy. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen, and I hope you dive in and experiment with flavors that speak to you!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fish like trout or steelhead salmon. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

Is bacon jam easy to make?

Yes, making bacon jam can be straightforward! It involves cooking bacon until crisp, then simmering it with onions, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar until it becomes a thick, spreadable jam. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

What can I serve with Bacon Jam Salmon?

You can serve this salmon with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Grains like quinoa or rice also make excellent companions to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I make bacon jam salmon ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the salmon and apply the bacon jam earlier in the day. Cover it and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming out cold from the fridge.