Salmon with Goat Cheese & Herbs

Elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, this Salmon with Goat Cheese & Herbs is a restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Tender, flaky salmon fillets are topped with a creamy goat cheese and herb mixture, then baked to perfection for a rich and vibrant entrée. It’s the kind of dish that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fast & Fancy – Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal effort.
Creamy & Fresh – Tangy goat cheese and fresh herbs elevate the flavor.
Low-Carb & High-Protein – A wholesome choice that’s full of nutrients.
Versatile – Works great with other fish or as a topping for veggies.
Perfect for Entertaining – Looks and tastes impressive with little fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 lemon, sliced into wedges (for serving)

For the Goat Cheese & Herb Topping:
4 oz goat cheese, softened
2 tbsp cream cheese (for smoothness)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest for extra brightness

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Spatula or spoon
Baking dish or sheet pan
Parchment paper or foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
Oven or air fryer (for alternative cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Herb Goat Cheese Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using).
2. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Rub with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking dish or sheet.

Step 4: Top with Goat Cheese Mixture

1. Spoon and gently spread a generous layer of the goat cheese herb mixture over each fillet.
2. Make sure the topping is evenly distributed and not too thick in the center.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the cheese topping is slightly golden.
2. For a more browned top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes.
2. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Salmon with Goat Cheese & Herbs
Use Fresh Herbs – They provide vibrant flavor that complements the creamy cheese.
Don’t Overcook – Salmon is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temp of 145°F.
Pat the Fish Dry – This helps the seasoning stick and prevents sogginess.
Add a Crunch – Top with a few toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts before baking for added texture.
Air Fryer Option – Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes in the air fryer for crispier edges.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh arugula salad.
Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, herbed couscous, or lemon rice.
Goes beautifully with a light vinaigrette-dressed salad for a spring meal.
Add a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon or an herby mocktail.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze individual portions tightly wrapped for up to 1 month.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use low power and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fish instead of salmon?
   Yes! This topping works great on cod, halibut, or even chicken breasts.
2. What if I don’t like goat cheese?
   You can use feta or ricotta for a milder flavor and similar texture.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Absolutely—assemble the topping in advance and store it in the fridge. Just spread and bake when ready.
4. Is this keto-friendly?
   Yes! This dish is low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
5. Can I add vegetables to the pan?
   Definitely! Try adding cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, or thin asparagus to bake alongside the salmon.

Final Thoughts
This Salmon with Goat Cheese & Herbs is a beautifully simple yet flavor-packed dish that’s sure to wow anyone you serve it to. The creamy goat cheese topping, infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, perfectly complements the rich, buttery salmon for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner date, a family gathering, or just yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and elegance—without the stress.

Try it once and it’s bound to become a new favorite! Don’t forget to leave a review or share your plated creation online—I’d love to see how it turns out.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 34g | Carbohydrates: 3g | Fat: 23g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 280mg

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