This dish features tender salmon topped with a crispy mix of parmesan cheese and herbs. It’s a tasty way to enjoy fish while adding a delightful crunch!
Cooking this salmon is a breeze! I love how the cheese creates a golden crust that keeps the fish juicy. Serve it with veggies and you have a tasty meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the best choice for this recipe, but you can use other firm fish like trout or cod. If you’re looking for a budget option, frozen salmon will work too—just thaw it completely before cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light, crunchy texture to the topping. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan tastes best, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor. Vegan cheese also works if you’re keeping it dairy-free!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add great flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorites like basil or thyme. Dried herbs can replace fresh if that’s all you have—just use about one-third of the amount.
Lemon Zest: This brightens up the dish. If you don’t have a lemon, lime zest can also add a zingy twist!
How Do You Get the Topping Extra Crispy?
Getting the topping nice and crispy is all about moisture control. Start by mixing your panko with olive oil, which helps it brown. Here’s how to really nail that crunch:
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry so excess moisture doesn’t steam the topping.
- Don’t skip the olive oil—it’s key for a crispy topping.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the salmon. The more it sticks, the better it will crisp up in the oven.
- Cook it at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) for the best results. Keep an eye on it—if it browns too quickly, cover lightly with foil.
Letting the salmon rest for a minute after baking will also help the topping stay crunchy. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this flavorful recipe!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, crunchy salmon dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped parsley, dill (if you’re using it), minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your salmon a lovely crunchy topping.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture. Stir everything well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This oil helps create that crispy texture we all love!
4. Prepare the Salmon:
Next, take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important—moisture can prevent the crust from getting crunchy. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Apply the Topping:
Take the breadcrumb mixture and press it firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet, creating a nice thick layer. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so each bite is delicious!
6. Bake the Salmon:
Now, pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-cooking.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with extra chopped parsley. Add some lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor when serving.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the crusty salmon right away, alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor!
Bon Appétit! Your flavorful salmon with a deliciously crunchy Parmesan herb crust is ready to be devoured!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure the topping adheres well and crisps up nicely.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may be less crunchy. For an extra crunch, consider toasting regular breadcrumbs in olive oil before using them in the topping.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
