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!
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.
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.
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.
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