Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon
Meet your new go-to dish: Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon. This recipe combines fresh herbs and zesty lemon with a crispy breadcrumb topping to elevate your salmon game. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that's both easy and impressive!
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Ingredients for Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon
Salmon fillets are the star of the show, providing a rich, buttery base that pairs perfectly with the herb crust. The breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch, while Parmesan cheese brings a salty, umami flavor to the mix. Olive oil helps bind the crust and adds a hint of fruitiness. Lemon zest is the zesty hero, brightening up the dish. Garlic and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add aromatic depth. Finally, a touch of Dijon mustard provides a subtle tangy backdrop that enhances all other flavors.
Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture, but if you're using frozen, make sure it's completely thawed before starting.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, dried ones can be used in a pinch — just reduce the quantity by half.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Serving Ideas for Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon
Serve your Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts also make excellent sides. For a carb pairing, try a light quinoa salad or herbed couscous.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of fish?
- Absolutely! This recipe works well with cod or halibut as well.
- How do I know when the salmon is done?
- The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Can I make the crust ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the crumb mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.
Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe Walkthrough
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Next, in a medium-sized bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, a pinch of salt, and a good crack of pepper. Stir everything together, then add the olive oil until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Take your salmon fillets and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the top of each one. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick and add a lovely tang.
Now, press the crumb mixture onto the mustard-coated side of each fillet. Don’t be shy here — you want a nice, even layer so every bite is packed with flavor.
Place the salmon fillets on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Once done, let the salmon cool for a few minutes before serving. This little rest allows the flavors to meld and makes for a cleaner slice.
Why This Zesty Herb-Crusted Salmon Works
- Quick and easy prep — on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Uses fresh, simple ingredients you might already have at home.
- Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of zest and a crispy texture.
- Healthy and satisfying, with minimal cleanup required.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in olive oil until mixture is crumbly.
- 3. Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- 4. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard-coated side of the fillets, ensuring an even layer.
- 5. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- 6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.