This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal! Imagine flaky, tender salmon with a crispy Parmesan cheese crust, infused with fresh herbs and a hint of garlic. This recipe is ready in just 25 minutes and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in a flash with minimal ingredients and simple steps.
- Flavorful and Crispy: The Parmesan cheese crust adds a delicious crunch and savory flavor to the salmon, while the herbs and garlic enhance the overall taste.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.
- Elegant Presentation: This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillet: Choose a high-quality salmon fillet with skin on or off, depending on your preference.
- Olive oil: Used to coat the salmon and help the seasonings adhere.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright and zesty flavor to the salmon.
- Sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the salmon.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy and flavorful crust.
- Fresh parsley and dill: Adds fresh herb flavor and a pop of color.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Helps to bind the Parmesan cheese crust and adds richness.
Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillet on the lined baking sheet. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and lemon juice on both sides. Season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Crust
In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped dill, and garlic powder. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly. Crumble this mixture evenly over the salmon and pat lightly to adhere.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake the salmon for 15-17 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. For best results, check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Cook to 120-125°F for medium-rare, 130-135°F for medium (recommended), or 140-145°F for well-done. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high-quality salmon: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality salmon.
- Pat the salmon dry: Patting the salmon dry helps it cook evenly and achieve a crispy crust.
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use an instant-read thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness.
How to Serve
This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is delicious with a variety of sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, complement the salmon beautifully.
- Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf adds a hearty touch to the meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the salmon.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use skinless salmon fillets? Yes, you can! The skin adds flavor and helps to keep the salmon moist, but you can use skinless fillets if you prefer.
2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, you can! If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of each.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as grated mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
4. Can I make this recipe without the butter? Yes, you can! The butter adds richness and helps to bind the crust, but you can omit it if you prefer.
This Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. With its crispy crust, tender salmon, and versatile serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
PrintParmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe (25 Min)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes! Tender salmon fillets are coated in a crispy Parmesan crust with fresh herbs and baked to perfection. It’s an easy and healthy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lb salmon fillet
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Season Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice on both sides. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, and garlic powder. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly. Crumble the mixture evenly over the salmon and pat lightly.
- Bake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For optimal results, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature: 120-125°F for medium-rare, 130-135°F for medium, or 140-145°F for well done.
Notes
- For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley or dill, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon each.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5-6 ounces (⅙ of fillet)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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