If you’re looking for a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, you’ll absolutely adore this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon topped with a crunchy, flavorful herb and Parmesan crust that makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving something fresh and wholesome, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a stunning result that’s as delicious as it is impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe plays a vital role, from the fresh dill providing a burst of herbal brightness to the Parmesan adding a savory richness to the crunchy crust. These essentials come together easily, making it a straightforward yet amazing dish.
- Salmon fillets (4 pieces, skin removed): The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and a moist, flaky texture once perfectly baked.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds a punch of aromatic depth and a bit of zest to the seasoning mix.
- Fresh dill (2 tbsp): Brings a light, refreshing herbal note that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the fish and butter.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates that irresistible crisp topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender fish beneath.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used to grease the baking dish and lightly drizzle over the salmon for moistness and flavor.
- Melted butter (2 tbsp): Enriches the crust mixture, ensuring it browns beautifully and stays crunchy.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while getting all your components ready. Mince the garlic finely and chop the dill fresh if needed, so you’re set to mix the seasoning when it’s time.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skinless salmon fillets in the dish. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil and fresh lemon juice to add moisture and a bright tang. Sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper all over the fillets to infuse the fish with a flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Prepare the Herb Crust
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will turn into that irresistible golden crust once baked. Spread this crumb blend generously over the top of each salmon fillet, making sure each piece is fully coated for maximum crunch and flavor.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Place the prepared salmon in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the salmon to be just cooked through, tender enough to flake easily with a fork, and the crust to be crisp and beautifully golden. Keep an eye on the crust’s color towards the end to prevent it from browning too much.
How to Serve Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill or a few thin lemon slices on top make a pretty, aromatic garnish that enhances the flavors in the Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe. A drizzle of extra lemon juice or even a dollop of crème fraîche adds a lovely touch of creaminess and zing.
Side Dishes
For sides, think fresh and vibrant to balance the richness of the salmon. Roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette all work beautifully. Even some steamed quinoa or wild rice can soak up those delightful juices on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this salmon on a wooden board with rustic lemon wedges and herb sprigs is an inviting presentation for guests. For a more elegant vibe, plate the salmon atop a bed of herb-infused couscous or colorful sautéed vegetables. Personalize with edible flowers or microgreens if you want to take it a notch higher.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to two days, retaining much of its flavor and texture.
Freezing
While the crust is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon fillets wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results. Note that the crust may lose some crispiness after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) to warm the salmon gently without drying it out, about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving when possible to maintain texture. You can crisp the topping slightly by finishing under a broiler for a minute or two if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and adding the crust. This helps the crust stick better and ensures even cooking.
Is it necessary to remove the salmon skin?
Removing the skin is recommended for this recipe to allow the crust to adhere directly to the flesh, creating a uniform texture and flavor. However, if you prefer, you can leave the skin on and eat around it.
Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried ones?
Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor and are ideal, but if you need to use dried herbs, reduce the quantity to about one-third since dried herbs have a more concentrated taste.
How can I make the crust gluten-free?
Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely crushed nuts like almonds or pecans. This will maintain the crunch without gluten, though the exact texture might be slightly different.
What’s the best way to tell if the salmon is done?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist inside. It should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and ideal texture.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe is like inviting a little gourmet magic into your kitchen. It’s approachable, full of vibrant flavors, and leaves everyone around the table impressed and satisfied. Take a chance on this delicious dish—you’ll soon be reaching for it again and again whenever you want a meal that feels both special and comforting at the same time.
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Herb Crusted Salmon recipe offers a perfect balance of tender, flaky fish with a crunchy, flavorful herb and Parmesan crust, baked to golden perfection. With fresh dill, garlic, and lemon juice enhancing the salmon’s natural flavors, this dish is an easy, elegant meal ideal for dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste, freshly ground preferred
Crust Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For Baking
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing and drizzling)
Instructions
- Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for the salmon to bake evenly once prepared.
- Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness to the salmon’s base.
- Season Salmon: Place the skinless salmon fillets in the prepared dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then season with minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to infuse bright, aromatic flavors.
- Make Herb Crust: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a moistened, flavorful crust mixture.
- Apply Crust: Generously spread the breadcrumb mixture over each salmon fillet, pressing lightly so the crust adheres well and covers the top evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and cook the salmon for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Skin removal helps the crust stick better and results in a more pleasant texture.
- Use fresh dill for the best flavor, but dried dill can be substituted if needed.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
- To check doneness, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon; it should flake easily.
- For a nut-free version, ensure that your panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan are processed in nut-free facilities if allergies are a concern.
