Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Comfort of Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe

There’s something truly soothing about settling into a meal that feels both fresh and indulgent at the same time. I love how this Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe manages to strike that perfect balance—it’s nourishing without feeling heavy, vibrant yet simple. The golden baked salmon, gently crisped on the edges, pairs beautifully with a velvety avocado mash that’s brightened by lemon’s lively zing.

Whenever I make this dish, it reminds me of those calm weekend afternoons when the kitchen fills with warm, inviting aromas and everything just falls effortlessly into place. You’ll notice how the creamy avocado offers a cool contrast to the tender, flaky salmon, creating a harmony that’s surprisingly comforting and endlessly satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing a quiet dinner with loved ones, this recipe invites you to savor those simple moments where good ingredients, easy techniques, and thoughtful flavors come together beautifully.

Ingredient Guide

• Fresh salmon fillets: Choose firm, bright pink or coral pieces for the best texture and flavor. Wild-caught adds a subtle earthiness.
• Ripe avocados: Creamy and buttery, they form the silky base of the mash. If you like, swap in Greek yogurt for extra tang.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lifts and brightens the avocado, preventing browning and adding a refreshing note.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the salmon’s surface during baking.
• Garlic powder: A gentle, aromatic zing that deepens the flavor without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper: Essential basics to season and bring all ingredients into harmony.

Prep Before You Begin

Before you dive in, take a moment to prep your ingredients so everything flows smoothly. I like to set my oven to 400°F (200°C) early on—that’s the perfect temp for baking salmon just right: tender inside with slightly crisped edges. Have your baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and gentle cooking.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures the salmon won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Place the fresh salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each fillet with extra virgin olive oil, allowing the oil to pool gently around them, enhancing the golden finish you’ll get.
3. Season generously with salt, cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. The garlic powder adds an aromatic warmth that complements the salmon’s natural sweetness without overpowering it.
4. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily when you touch it lightly with a fork, yet remains juicy and tender inside. The edges may crisp slightly, giving a pleasing texture contrast.

5. Mash the ripe avocados in a bowl while your salmon bakes. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, and mash until you get a smooth but slightly chunky texture. This mix brings a bright creamy element that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
6. Remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. This little pause keeps the juices locked in and makes it easier to top without breaking the fillets.
7. Top each salmon fillet with a generous scoop of the creamy avocado mash. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil for that elegant, glossy finish and an added layer of richness.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy how the contrasting textures and flavors create such a satisfying bite—warm salmon with cool, tangy avocado.

Creative Variations for Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe

• Swap garlic powder for smoked paprika for a subtle smoky twist that deepens the dish’s warmth.
• Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into the avocado mash for added brightness and an herbaceous punch.
• Mix in a pinch of chili flakes to the avocado for some gentle heat and complexity.
• Try swapping salmon for other firm fish like cod or halibut when you want a different texture.
• Serve on a bed of lightly dressed mixed greens or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Top with thin slices of radish or pomegranate seeds for texture contrasts and a pop of color.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the avocado mash separate to avoid browning.
• The salmon freezes well if wrapped tightly; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
• Reheat salmon in a low oven (~300°F/150°C) wrapped in foil to retain moisture, avoiding microwave heating that can dry it out.
• Avocado mash is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to 24 hours refrigerated with lemon juice to maintain color.
• For quick reheating, place salmon under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully so it doesn’t overcook.

Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Mash Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe? Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw them fully in the fridge overnight and pat dry before seasoning and baking.
• How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked? It should flake easily with a fork but still feel moist inside, usually about 12–15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• What if my avocados aren’t ripe enough? To speed ripening, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple for a day or two before making the mash.
• Is garlic powder necessary? It adds a nice gentle bite without overwhelming. If fresh garlic is your preference, use about one minced clove, but bake it lightly or add on top after cooking.
• Can I prepare the avocado mash ahead of time? Yes, but for best color and freshness, prepare it right before serving or keep it tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface.

Print