This crusty salmon is topped with a tasty mix of parmesan cheese and herbs, making it a real treat for your taste buds! It’s simple to prepare and looks fancy on the plate.
I love how the crispy topping gives the salmon a nice crunch. Pair it with some veggies or a salad for a delightful meal. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. You can also use skin-on fillets for extra flavor. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or even chicken breasts for a similar preparation.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty, nutty flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option, but the taste will be different.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light, crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine but won’t be as crunchy. You can even crush some crackers as an alternative!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill are great here, but feel free to swap in other herbs like thyme or basil according to your preferences or what’s available.
Olive Oil or Butter: Either works well, but I prefer olive oil for a lighter taste. You could also try avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crusty Topping?
The key to a great crust is the combination of texture and moisture in the topping. Here’s how to ensure your topping comes out perfectly every time:
- Mix the dry topping ingredients first so everything is evenly distributed.
- Don’t skip on the olive oil or butter! This helps crisp it up in the oven.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the salmon. This helps it stick and forms a nice crust.
- Watch the baking time closely! Ovens vary, so check around the 12-minute mark.
- Broil for a minute or two at the end to achieve that golden, crunchy finish.
Following these tips will help you make that perfect crust every time! Happy cooking!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin removed if preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious salmon dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires about 12-15 minutes of baking time. In total, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Prep for Baking:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, dill (if you’re using it), minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well so that all the flavors blend nicely.
3. Add Moisture:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter into the breadcrumb mixture. Stir well until the topping is moist and everything is nicely incorporated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crust!
4. Prepare Salmon for Baking:
Next, place the salmon fillets on your prepared baking sheet. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel to remove any moisture, then season them lightly with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the fish!
5. Apply the Topping:
Using your hands, evenly press the Parmesan herb topping over the tops of each salmon fillet. Make sure to cover them well for that perfect crusty finish once baked!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the topping is golden brown and crusty.
7. Extra Crisp Finish (Optional):
If you want an even more crispy topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the salmon rest for a minute or two. This helps all the juices settle. Serve your delicious crusty salmon with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley for that extra touch!
Enjoy your meal with your favorite sides, and savor every bite of this delightful dish!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, though the topping may not be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed crackers or even oats can work in a pinch, giving a different flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat it in the oven to keep the topping crisp. Simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make the Topping Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Parmesan herb topping a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to mix it with the salmon fillets right before baking for the best results!
