This Crispy Parmesan Herb-Crusted Salmon is a tasty dish that’s ready in no time! The crunchy parmesan coating pairs perfectly with tender salmon, making it a hit at any meal.
Feeling fancy? You don’t have to be a chef to make this! Just sprinkle the herbs and breadcrumbs on your fish, pop it in the oven, and impress everyone at the table! 🍽️
I love serving this salmon with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. It’s quick, easy, and always makes me smile with each delicious bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, trout or even a white fish like cod will work too. Look for the skin-on option for extra flavor and crispiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious salty kick. If you’re dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative if you want something sharper!
Breadcrumbs: I used plain breadcrumbs, but you can also use panko for an extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crush up some gluten-free crackers. They work surprisingly well!
Herbs & Spices: Fresh herbs are great, but if you have dried ones, they work just fine too. I’m a fan of adding some fresh dill if I have it, which complements salmon beautifully!
How Do You Make Sure the Salmon Stays Moist and Flaky?
Keeping salmon moist while achieving that crispy crust is key. Start with high-quality, fresh salmon. Make sure you don’t overcook it! You want it to reach about 145°F (63°C) for it to be perfectly flaky.
- Brush melted butter on the salmon to keep it moist and enhance flavor.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly on the salmon so it sticks well during baking.
- Let it rest after baking for a couple of minutes; this helps redistribute juices.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Herb-Crusted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
For The Crust:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For Garnish:
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Just a short time in the kitchen for a fantastic salmon meal that’s crispy and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First thing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the salmon doesn’t stick.
2. Make the Crust Mixture
In a medium bowl, throw in the plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. This will make the tasty topping for our salmon!
3. Prepare the Salmon
Take your salmon fillets and place them skin-side down on the lined baking sheet. This helps the skin get crispy while keeping the fish tender.
4. Add Butter and Crust
Brush the tops of the salmon fillets with melted butter. Make sure each one is nicely coated with that buttery goodness. Then, generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the salmon, pressing down lightly so it sticks well.
5. Bake
Now, pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust turns golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Rest and Serve
Once your salmon is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve your crispy salmon garnished with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Yes! While salmon is delicious, you can substitute with other firm fish like trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thinner or thicker fillets may require less or more time in the oven. Always check that the fish is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a similar texture, grated pecorino or any hard cheese can work, too. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly with different cheeses.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain the crust’s crispiness compared to using a microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to coat the salmon and bake it just before serving for optimal crispiness. If you must, you can assemble it and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before baking, but allow extra time for the baking process if it’s cold.
