This crusty salmon is topped with a yummy mix of parmesan and fresh herbs. It’s baked until golden and has a nice crunch that’ll make your taste buds dance!
I love how quickly this dish comes together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner! Pair it with some veggies, and you’re all set for a tasty meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish. If you can’t find it, try trout or tilapia, which work similarly. Canned salmon can also be used but won’t have that fresh taste or texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its light and crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch, but they might be less crunchy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute for a similar effect.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and basil brighten this dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will do—just reduce the amount since dried herbs are stronger.
How Do I Get That Perfectly Crisp Topping?
The key to a crispy topping is properly mixing and applying it to the salmon. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix panko and cheese with melted butter and oil to help it brown.
- Pack the mixture onto the salmon firmly so it sticks during baking.
- Watch closely in the oven. Bake until it’s just golden—around 12-15 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the fish.
Enjoy this simple preparation, and remember that fresh ingredients make a big difference!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, thyme, basil, garlic, and lemon zest. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
3. Add Butter and Oil:
Pour in the melted butter and olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture. Toss it all together until the breadcrumbs are coated evenly. This will help create a nice golden crust!
4. Season the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
5. Arrange the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out a little.
6. Add the Crust:
Take the breadcrumb mixture and evenly spread it over the top of each salmon fillet. Press it gently to make sure it sticks on well.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the salmon is cooked through and the topping turns golden brown and crispy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the salmon out of the oven. Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
This delicious crusty salmon is a treat with its crunchy, cheesy topping! Enjoy it with steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a lovely meal! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to fully thaw it first! The best way to do this is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick method: place the sealed salmon in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a cheese substitute, consider using pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make the Topping Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breadcrumb topping a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to make the salmon, simply assemble and bake as directed!