Baked Salmon Avocado Mash

Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash makes dinnertime feel special with gourmet flavors and freshness but with zero fuss or fancy equipment. This recipe is my secret weapon for those nights when I want dinner to feel celebratory but need it on the table fast. The savory warmth of perfectly baked salmon paired with creamy limey avocado mash feels both nourishing and a little luxurious.

I first made this dish for a last-minute dinner with friends and we all swooned over that perfect combo of flaky salmon and tangy avocado. Now I whip it up on busy weeknights or as a healthy dinner for guests.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: provide healthy fats and protein always choose fillets with firm flesh and a fresh sea smell
• Salt and black pepper: for basic seasoning opt for sea salt if possible
• Garlic powder: brings a gentle savory aroma choose pure garlic powder without additives
• Paprika: delivers warmth and a subtle sweetness look for vibrant red paprika for best flavor
• Cayenne pepper: adds gentle heat use sparingly and taste as you go
• Extra virgin olive oil: coats and protects the salmon always select cold-pressed for flavor
• Avocados: give the topping its creamy richness select ripe but not mushy avocados that yield to gentle pressure
• Lime zest and juice: provide brightness and balance in the mash use fresh lime for the best zing
• Chopped dill: lends an herby note to the mash look for soft feathery fronds
• Chopped red onion: adds crunch and bite make sure it is crisp and brightly colored

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Set up your oven rack in the middle slot for even heat This step ensures the salmon bakes evenly every time

Season the Salmon:

Lay your salmon fillets gently in a baking dish Sprinkle each fillet with a pinch of salt black pepper garlic powder paprika and cayenne Drizzle with olive oil and use your hands or a pastry brush to coat every surface thoroughly The seasonings will create a flavorful crust and the oil keeps the salmon moist

Bake the Salmon:

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven Roast for twelve to fifteen minutes until the fillets are opaque and flake easily with a fork If the fillets are thick you may need an extra minute or two The high heat gently cooks and caramelizes the surface

Make the Avocado Mash:

While the salmon is baking pit and scoop your avocados into a bowl Use a fork to mash them until almost smooth Grate in the zest of one lime and squeeze in its juice Sprinkle with salt and add plenty of chopped dill Fold the ingredients together so you get creamy green mash with herby flecks and bits of zest

Finish and Serve:

Once the salmon is out of the oven spoon a thick layer of avocado mash on top of each fillet Scatter chopped red onion over everything for crunch and color Serve immediately while the fish is still warm and the avocado creamy

Save

Avocado is the superstar here for me Nothing beats its vibrant creamy texture and lime zing I love watching my kids’ faces light up when they get a heaping spoonful of avocado on their salmon It reminds me of summer picnics where this combo was always the first to disappear

Storage Tips

Store leftover salmon and avocado mash separately to keep flavors fresh Salmon will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For the avocado mash press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto its surface to reduce browning and use within twenty four hours Reheat the salmon gently in the oven to avoid drying it out

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of dill try fresh cilantro or parsley for a different herby twist Lemon can swap in for lime and if you want less heat replace cayenne with a pinch of smoked paprika Instead of red onion try thinly sliced green onion for a milder bite

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish atop mixed greens for a hearty salad or tuck salmon fillets and avocado mash into lettuce wraps Top with crisp cucumber slices or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for extra crunch You can also pair with simple roasted potatoes or cauliflower rice

Cultural and Historical Context

Baked salmon is a classic dish in cuisines across the globe from the US to Scandinavia This version leans on fresh California flavors of creamy avocado and lime making it feel modern and healthy My family always served fish on Fridays and this easy baked salmon felt celebratory yet comforting at the end of a busy week

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, simply thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking.

→ What can I substitute for dill in the avocado mash?

You can use fresh parsley or cilantro if you prefer a different herbal flavor in the mash.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout, usually after 12-15 minutes of baking.

→ Can I make the avocado mash ahead of time?

For best freshness, prepare the mash just before serving, as avocados brown quickly even with lime juice.

→ What side dishes pair well with this salmon dish?

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice complement the flavors and keep the meal balanced and wholesome.

→ Is this dinner suitable for special diets?

Yes, it's gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and fits Whole30. Always check ingredient labels for compliance.