This crusty salmon with a cheesy herb topping is sure to impress! The parmesan adds a delightful crunch, while the herbs bring a fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the salmon.
Every time I make this dish, I feel like a chef! It’s so simple to whip up, and the best part? The crispy topping makes the salmon so irresistible. You might even want to share it, but I wouldn’t blame you if you kept it all for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If you want to mix things up, you can swap in trout or any firm white fish, like cod or haddock. Make sure to adjust cooking times for different fish types.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the topping might be less crunchy. You can even make your own panko by baking stale bread until dry and then processing it into crumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and crunch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is also a nice alternative if you want a sharper taste.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and chives add freshness to the topping. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Topping?
The key to a crispy topping is all about the breadcrumbs and the moisture. Start with dry and light panko breadcrumbs, and mix them with melted butter and a bit of oil. This combo helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Coat the salmon evenly, pressing the topping down slightly for good adhesion.
- Bake at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the color; it should be golden!
- To check if the salmon is done, use a fork to see if it flakes easily. Overcooking can dry it out.
For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning. Enjoy your perfectly crispy salmon!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off as preferred
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crusty salmon dish takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will help ensure your crusty salmon comes out just right!
2. Mix the Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and chives (if you’re using them). Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to season it well. Stir everything together until combined.
3. Add Butter and Oil:
Pour in the melted butter and olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix well until all the crumbs are evenly coated and feel slightly moist—this is what will give your topping that crunchy goodness!
4. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Place each fillet skin-side down (if you’re using skin-on) on the prepared baking sheet. This helps create a nice crust and keeps the fish moist.
5. Apply the Topping:
Now, take the delicious breadcrumb mixture and evenly distribute it over the top of each salmon fillet. Press down gently to help it stick.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork, while the topping becomes golden and crisp.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. This helps it finish cooking and enhances the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crusty salmon with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor. You can even add a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or some shaved Parmesan on top if you’d like. Enjoy this quick and delightful dish with your favorite side!
Can I Substitute Other Fish for Salmon?
Absolutely! You can use firm white fish like cod, haddock, or even trout. Just be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How Can I Make This Dish Low-Carb?
To lower the carb content, you can skip the breadcrumbs altogether or use crushed pork rinds as a substitute. You can also serve the salmon over a bed of sautéed vegetables instead of grains.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the topping and coat the salmon fillets up to a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This will save you time during dinner!
What Should I Serve With This Salmon?
This crusty salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Rice or quinoa also work well to compliment the dish.
