If you’re looking for a meal that’s delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy to make, this Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is exactly what you need! The salmon is perfectly flaky and tender, seasoned just right, and baked to perfection. Pair that with a creamy, zesty avocado mash, and you’ve got a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something impressive for guests, this dish is simple yet elegant—and best of all, it’s loaded with healthy fats, protein, and flavor!
Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s, protein, and healthy fats.
Super Flavorful: A perfect balance of citrus, garlic, and creamy avocado.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and toppings to fit your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: Make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Ingredients in Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
Here’s what makes this dish so incredibly delicious:
Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish—rich, buttery, and packed with nutrients.
Olive Oil (or Butter): Keeps the salmon moist and adds extra flavor.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens up the dish and enhances the salmon’s flavor.
Garlic Powder (or Fresh Garlic): Adds a savory depth to the salmon.
Paprika & Black Pepper: A touch of smokiness and spice.
Avocados: Creamy and rich—the perfect mash base.
Red Onion (or Shallots): Adds a mild crunch and flavor to the avocado mash.
Cilantro (or Parsley): Fresh herbs bring everything together.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors.
Chili Flakes (Optional): For a little extra heat.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Season the Salmon: Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with lemon zest, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bake the Salmon: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Prepare the Avocado Mash: While the salmon is baking, mash the avocados in a bowl. Stir in red onion, cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Assemble & Serve: Plate the salmon and top each fillet with a generous scoop of avocado mash. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.
How to Serve Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
- Over Quinoa or Rice: A great way to make it a heartier meal.
- With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad pairs beautifully.
- In a Wrap or Bowl: Flake the salmon and enjoy in a wrap or a grain bowl.
Additional Tips
Make It Dairy-Free: It’s naturally dairy-free—just use olive oil instead of butter.
For Extra Crispiness: Broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes for a lightly crispy top.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy it for lunch the next day!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
A1: Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
Q2: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A2: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q3: Can I grill the salmon instead?
A3: Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Q4: What can I use instead of cilantro?
A4: Try parsley or basil for a different fresh flavor.
Q5: Can I make the avocado mash ahead of time?
A5: It’s best fresh, but adding extra lemon juice helps prevent browning.
Q6: Can I add other seasonings to the salmon?
A6: Yes! Try cumin, chili powder, or even a honey glaze.
Q7: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A7: Reheat salmon in a low oven (300°F) or enjoy it cold over a salad.
Q8: Can I use another type of fish?
A8: Yes! Try trout, cod, or even halibut.
Q9: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A9: Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Q10: What’s a good side dish for this meal?
A10: Roasted sweet potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple cucumber salad.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring! It’s fresh, flavorful, and beyond easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, this dish is a total winner.
Print
Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is a nutritious, high-protein, and omega-3-rich meal perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. The salmon is flaky and flavorful, while the creamy avocado mash adds a refreshing touch. A quick and easy dish that fits into a healthy lifestyle!
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
For the Avocado Mash:
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat dry the salmon fillets and place them on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and honey.
- Rub the spice mix evenly over the fillets.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- Make the Avocado Mash:
- While the salmon bakes, mash the avocados in a bowl.
- Add lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cilantro/parsley. Mix well.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Plate the baked salmon and top with the avocado mash.
- Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with avocado mash
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 75mg