This crusty salmon is topped with a delicious mix of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that makes dinner feel special!
Honestly, the crispy topping is so good that it might steal the show from the salmon! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a complete meal. Yummy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen ones too. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking. If you prefer, trout or another firm white fish works well, too.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can do, but your topping might not be as crispy. You could also use crushed crackers for a different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Pecorino Romano can substitute well for a sharper flavor, too!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill are classic here, but feel free to mix in oregano or thyme based on preference. If you don’t have fresh herbs, 1 teaspoon of dried herbs will work in a pinch.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth, but if you’re not a garlic fan, you can skip it or reduce the amount. Garlic powder is an alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Get That Topping Extra Crispy?
Getting the topping perfectly crispy is key to this dish! Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
- Add melted butter and olive oil to the breadcrumb mix, which helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Don’t skip pressing the topping onto the salmon; this helps it stick and form a good crust.
- Bake until the topping is golden brown and the salmon is just cooked through; watch closely to avoid drying it out.
Letting it rest for a couple of minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute, keeping the salmon moist. Enjoy your crispy salmon!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 25-30 minutes to get this mouth-watering salmon on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your salmon the perfect crispy topping! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dill, minced garlic, and lemon zest. This will create a fragrant, flavorful topping that’s sure to delight!
3. Add Oils to the Mix:
Pour in the olive oil and melted butter. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly moistened. Always add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste – it adds that extra flavor boost!
4. Get Your Salmon Ready:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the topping stick better. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
5. Apply the Topping:
Now comes the fun part! Press the Parmesan herb topping evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure to press down gently to help it stick. Every bite needs that crunchy goodness!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you want the salmon cooked through and the topping golden brown and crispy!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This is a good time to enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
8. Serve It Up:
Finally, garnish with lemon slices and any extra chopped herbs you like. Serve immediately and enjoy that delightful crunch paired with tender fish. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress!
This recipe produces salmon with a flavorful, crunchy Parmesan herb crust that pairs beautifully with the tender, flaky fish beneath. Enjoy your delicious crusty salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry before adding the topping for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work, though the topping may not be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed crackers or even cornflakes can provide a nice crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the topping crispy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the topping and coat the salmon in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Add an extra minute or two to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
