Herb-Crusted Salmon Delight

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 18 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to the world of flavor with Herb-Crusted Salmon Delight! This recipe combines the freshness of herbs with the savory richness of salmon, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish brings a gourmet touch to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Salmon Delight

Salmon fillets are the star of this dish, providing a rich, buttery flavor and healthy omega-3 fats. The breadcrumbs give the crust a satisfying crunch, while Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty note that complements the fish. Fresh parsley and dill bring a vibrant, green freshness that lifts the entire dish. A touch of olive oil helps bind the crust ingredients, adding a subtle fruitiness. Lemon zest infuses the crust with a bright citrus aroma, enhancing the salmon’s natural flavor. A dash of salt and black pepper rounds out the seasoning, and minced garlic adds a little punch to the base layer on the fish. Finally, Dijon mustard provides a tangy, slightly spicy base that helps the herb crust adhere beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t deliver the same brightness.
  • If your crust mixture is too dry, add a little more olive oil until it clumps together nicely.
  • For an extra crispy crust, broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This salmon pairs beautifully with a side of roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad. A dollop of creamy mashed potatoes or a scoop of quinoa can make it a more filling meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before you start.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
Any mustard you have on hand will work, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Herb-Crusted Salmon Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Next, grab a medium bowl and combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over this mixture and stir until everything is well coated — you want the crumbs to be slightly moist so they stick to the salmon.

Place the salmon fillets on your prepared baking sheet. Rub each fillet with the minced garlic, making sure to spread it evenly over the surface. Follow up with a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each piece. This not only adds flavor but also helps the herb mixture stick. Now, take a handful of your breadcrumb mixture and press it firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet. Ensure the crust is even and covers the top well.

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the salmon bake for 15-18 minutes. You'll know it's done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork — it should look opaque and juicy. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing of freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy weeknight.
  • Packed with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
  • Healthy but indulgent, catering to both taste and nutrition.
  • The perfect balance of crispy topping and tender fish.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, zested
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Rub each fillet with minced garlic and a thin layer of Dijon mustard.
6. Press the herb mixture firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even coating.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

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