This dish of crusty salmon with a parmesan herb topping is a real treat! The salmon gets crispy while the topping adds a burst of flavor with cheese and herbs.
It’s super easy to make, and you’ll feel like a chef in your kitchen. I love serving it with a side of veggies to keep it fresh and colorful. Yum! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find them, try using trout or steelhead trout, as they have similar flavors. Canned salmon is another option if you’re in a pinch, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a wonderful crunch. If you’re out, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but they won’t be as crispy. Almond flour can also work if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Just remember, the cheese helps create that crust, so use something that melts well.
Fresh Herbs: I recommend using fresh parsley and dill for the best taste. However, if you don’t have them, dried herbs can work too—just use less (about 1/3 of fresh). You can also try basil or thyme as tasty alternatives.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crusty Topping?
Achieving a beautifully crusty topping is all about combining the right textures and getting the cooking time just right. Follow these steps to ensure success:
- Mix the panko, cheese, and herbs thoroughly with olive oil. This moisture is key!
- Press the mixture onto the salmon fillets gently; it helps the topping stick while baking.
- Bake until the fish flakes easily; don’t rush it. If you want extra crispness, broil for the final 2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
These techniques make all the difference for a deliciously crispy salmon topping!
Crusty Salmon With Parmesan Herb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for baking. All in all, you’ll be enjoying your delicious, crusty salmon in about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Topping Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dill, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and looks nice and tasty!
3. Get the Salmon Ready:
Next, pat the salmon fillets dry with some paper towels. This helps them to get that nice crust! Place them on your prepared baking sheet and drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice over them. Season the fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Topping:
Now, it’s time to add the topping! Take that delightful Parmesan herb breadcrumb mixture and evenly spread it over the tops of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—press it down gently so it sticks.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake the salmon for about 12–15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork, and the topping turns golden and crusty!
6. Optional Broiling for Extra Crispness:
If you want an even crispier topping, you can broil the salmon for an additional 2 minutes at the end. Just make sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the salmon out of the oven, garnish with a little extra fresh parsley if you like, and serve it with lemon wedges for squeezing on top. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit! Your flavorful, crusty Parmesan herb topped salmon is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is a favorite for its flavor and texture, you can also use other firm fish like trout, halibut, or cod. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish fillets.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping mixture and apply it to the fish up to a few hours in advance. Cover the assembled salmon fillets with plastic wrap and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may not get the topping as crispy, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version. Both will still add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish!