Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Creamy Garlic Boursin Cheese Sauce
This baked salmon recipe combines the rich, tender flavor of salmon with a luxuriously creamy Boursin sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon. It’s a Mediterranean-style dish that feels elegant but is simple enough for a weeknight. The salmon bakes to perfection while the sauce thickens and coats each fillet, creating a savory, tangy, and buttery topping. Fresh parsley adds brightness and a vibrant finish. Serve with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a light couscous for a complete meal.
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (~6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
For the Creamy Boursin Sauce
4 oz Boursin cheese, Garlic & Fine Herbs
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or green onion/celery for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the salmon
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat salmon fillets dry, then brush lightly with olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Place them on a lined or lightly greased baking tray.
Bake the salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. Salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist.
Make the creamy Boursin sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Reduce heat to low, then stir in Boursin cheese, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard. Stir gently until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
Combine and serve
Plate the baked salmon fillets and spoon the creamy Boursin sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green garnish for color. Serve immediately.
Tips
Use room temperature salmon – It cooks more evenly and stays tender.
Don’t overbake – Check salmon at 12 minutes for medium doneness; it will continue cooking slightly after removing from oven.
Fresh garlic matters – Use freshly minced garlic instead of powder for the best flavor.
Cream consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it.
Even seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving; Boursin is flavorful but salt may need slight adjustment.
Optional paprika – Adds color but doesn’t affect flavor much.
Garnish freshness – Use parsley, green onion, or celery for color contrast and mild freshness.
Use heavy cream – It gives the sauce its rich texture; half-and-half will thin it slightly.
Serve immediately – The sauce is best warm; it thickens upon cooling.
Variations
Lemon Herb Version – Add thyme or oregano to the sauce for extra Mediterranean aroma.
Spicy Kick – Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
Wine Reduction – Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
Dairy-Free Option – Substitute Boursin with a vegan garlic-herb spread and coconut cream.
Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top before baking.
Vegetable Addition – Roast asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini alongside salmon.
Garlic-Free Option – Use chives and lemon zest for flavor without raw garlic.
Creamier Sauce – Blend Boursin with additional cream for an ultra-smooth topping.
Air Fryer – Cook salmon in an air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 8–10 minutes, then spoon sauce on top.
Q&A
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely before baking for even cooking.
What type of salmon is best?
Wild-caught or farmed Atlantic/Coho fillets work well.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead?
Yes, but warm gently before serving. Avoid boiling to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I use other cheeses?
Soft cream cheeses with herbs (like herbed Neufchâtel) can substitute for Boursin.
Can this be cooked on the stovetop?
Yes, sear salmon in a skillet, then finish in the oven or cover to cook through.
How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork but still be moist. Internal temp ~125–130°F (52–55°C).
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the sauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but increase sauce quantities proportionally.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Salmon can be frozen, but sauce may separate; reheat gently and stir.
What to serve it with?
Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a light salad are perfect.
Nutrition
(approx. per serving)
Calories: 420–480
Protein: 32–35 g
Fat: 28–32 g
Carbs: 4–6 g
Fiber: 0–1 g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Creamy Garlic Boursin Sauce is elegant yet simple, balancing rich seafood with a flavorful, herby, and creamy topping. The salmon stays tender and flaky, the Boursin adds a luxurious texture, and a touch of lemon brightens the dish. It’s versatile enough for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party centerpiece. You can pair it with roasted vegetables, grains, or light salads to complete the meal. This recipe is easy to adapt, so you can experiment with spices, herbs, or cheese for your perfect combination.