Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious weeknight meal that feels gourmet, look no further than this Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baked Salmon. This dish pairs the rich flavor of salmon with a delightful, crunchy topping that’s bursting with savory goodness. The combination of Parmesan cheese and crispy panko bread crumbs creates a crunchy crust that complements the tender fish beautifully. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra burst of flavor, and you’ll have a meal that will impress your family or guests!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, helping to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s well-blended, ensuring every crumb is coated with flavor.
- Carefully place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are skin side down for optimal cooking.
- Generously spread the breadcrumb mixture over each salmon fillet, pressing down gently to make sure it sticks and forms a delicious crust.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to perfection and the topping turns that irresistible shade of golden brown and crispy.
- Once it’s done, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes—this helps the flavors settle.
- Finish it off by garnishing with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty kick.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture if you enjoy a bit of heat. You can also substitute fresh herbs like dill or basil for the dried oregano and thyme for a different flavor twist. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
Cooking Techniques
Baking is the star technique here, allowing for a healthy cooking method that keeps the salmon moist while achieving a crunchy topping. The use of panko bread crumbs rather than regular bread crumbs gives that light, airy texture that is crucial for the crispy finish. Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow heat to circulate properly around the salmon fillets.
FAQ
Can I use skin-on salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Skin-on fillets can add extra flavor, and the skin helps to hold the fish together during cooking. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time slightly if your fillets are particularly thick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Conclusion
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baked Salmon is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, it has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you make—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!