This crusty salmon is topped with a yummy mix of parmesan and herbs that make it so good. It’s a quick and healthy dinner option that will brighten up your table!
I love how the crispy topping adds a nice crunch to the tender salmon. It’s almost like eating a delicious seafood pizza! Serve it with veggies for a great meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon will work too. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch. If you have regular breadcrumbs, those can substitute, but the texture won’t be quite the same. You could also use crushed crackers for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese that melts well.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are great here. You could swap in other herbs like basil or thyme based on what you like or have. Dried herbs can work, but use less since they are stronger.
Lemon Zest: This adds brightness. If you don’t have lemon, lime zest can also be refreshing, or simply add a bit of lemon juice for acidity.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting salmon just right can be tricky but easy with a few tips! The best way to know is to look for its natural color change and texture. Here’s a simple guide:
- Preheat the oven with care. A hot oven (425°F) helps form the crusty topping quickly.
- Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Don’t overcook! Salmon is done when it’s opaque and just starting to flake. Keep an eye on it towards the end.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remember, the salmon will continue cooking a little after you take it out, so if it’s just about done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 12-15 minutes for baking, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is an important step to ensure the topping gets nice and crispy while cooking the salmon. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dill (if you’re using it), minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the crunchy, delicious topping for your salmon!
3. Add Olive Oil:
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture. Stir it gently until all the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist. This helps get that lovely golden color while baking.
4. Season the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the topping stick better. Sprinkle a little salt and black pepper on both sides of each fillet to season them lightly.
5. Top the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly press the Parmesan herb breadcrumb mixture over the top of each fillet. Make sure to gently push it down a bit so it sticks well!
6. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The salmon should be just cooked through, and the topping should turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Garnish:
When the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This is a great time to prepare any sides you want to serve with it. Finally, garnish the salmon with fresh parsley sprigs and add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salmon hot with your choice of sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious, crusty salmon with the crispy, cheesy herb topping!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Yes! While salmon is recommended for its rich flavor, you can use other firm fish like cod or haddock. Just adjust the cooking time as thinner fish may require less time in the oven. Aim for 10-12 minutes depending on thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! Regular breadcrumbs can be substituted, but keep in mind that they won’t provide the same crunchiness. You can also use crushed crackers or a mixture of oats and breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon and topping in advance. Assemble the salmon with the topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the topping’s crispiness. Enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches for a tasty lunch!
