Maple-Dijon Baked Salmon with Walnut Crust

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple-Dijon Baked Salmon with Walnut Crust is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional baked salmon, combining the richness of walnuts with the tangy sweetness of maple syrup.

Ingredients for Maple-Dijon Baked Salmon with Walnut Crust

Salmon fillets: The star of the dish, providing a rich, savory base that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.

Maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and a hint of caramelization to the salmon.

Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Walnuts: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, complementing the salmon's richness.

Panko breadcrumbs: Help create a crisp, golden crust on top of the salmon.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps bind the crust ingredients together.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the sweet and savory elements.

Fresh thyme leaves: Infuse a subtle herbal note to the crust, enhancing the overall profile.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Toast the walnuts lightly before using for an extra depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salmon shines alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, pair it with quinoa or wild rice, which soak up the delicious juices from the salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of nut for the crust?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work nicely as alternatives.
What if I don't have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme can be used instead, but reduce the amount to 1 tsp as dried herbs tend to be more potent.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the glaze and crust mixture ahead, but it's best to bake the salmon fresh for optimal texture.

Maple-Dijon Baked Salmon with Walnut Crust Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's hot and ready by the time your salmon is prepped. Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. This will be your flavor-packed glaze.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your salmon fillets skin-side down. Give them a good sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Now, pour that maple-Dijon mixture over the fillets, making sure they're well coated. Use a spoon to spread it evenly if needed.

In another bowl, mix together the walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and fresh thyme leaves. This is your crust. Evenly distribute the walnut mixture over each salmon fillet, pressing lightly so it adheres well.

Pop the salmon in the oven and let it bake for 12-15 minutes. You'll know it's done when the salmon is cooked through and the crust is a lovely golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the salmon moist.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients for an elegant dish.
  • Gluten-free adaptable with minor tweaks.
  • Rich in Omega-3s and packed with healthy fats.

Ingredients

4 x 6 oz salmon fillets
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Season the salmon with salt and black pepper.
5. Pour the maple-Dijon mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
6. In another bowl, combine the walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and fresh thyme leaves.
7. Evenly distribute the walnut mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing lightly to adhere.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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