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Here’s what you need to make crispy Parmesan crusted salmon: - 4 salmon fillets (with skin) - 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients create a dish that is simple yet full of flavor. The salmon provides a rich, buttery texture, while the Parmesan and panko create a crispy topping. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and flavor. Garlic gives it a savory depth, and lemon brightens the dish. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for even cooking. While the oven heats up, grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper. This will help with cleanup later. In a mixing bowl, combine these ingredients: - 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - A pinch of salt and pepper Mix them together well. You want all the flavors to blend nicely. Now, take your salmon fillets. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the skin side of each fillet. Use a brush or a spoon to spread the oil evenly. Season the fillets with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the fish. Flip the fillets so they are skin-side down on the baking sheet. Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet. Make sure it sticks well for that tasty crust. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the crusted salmon. This helps the topping get crispy. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. Look for a golden brown topping and cooked-through salmon. After baking, take the salmon out of the oven. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. This adds a nice zesty finish. It brightens the flavors and makes the dish pop. Enjoy your crispy Parmesan crusted salmon! To get a great crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko creates a light crunch that you can't beat. Mix in finely grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Make sure to press the topping firmly onto the salmon. This helps it stick while baking. Drizzle olive oil on top for added richness. The oil helps achieve that golden-brown look. For this recipe, I recommend using skin-on salmon fillets. The skin adds flavor and helps keep the fish moist. Look for fresh salmon that has bright color and smells clean. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer flavor than farmed. You can also choose between different types, like sockeye or coho, based on your taste. To prevent burning, keep an eye on your oven temperature. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. If your topping is browning too fast, cover it with foil. This allows the salmon to cook without burning the crust. You can also reduce the oven temperature slightly if needed. Serve your crispy Parmesan crusted salmon with sautéed spinach or roasted veggies. Both add color and nutrients to your plate. A side of lemon wedges brightens up the dish. For a starch, try quinoa or rice. These sides balance the meal and make it more filling. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon and herbs to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Perfect the Crust: Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the salmon to ensure it adheres well and forms a crispy crust. Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes; overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden crust and tender, flaky fish. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized touch. {{image_4}} You can change the taste by adding herbs or spices. Try fresh dill for a light, fresh flavor. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. You might even like a bit of cayenne for heat. Mix and match to find your favorite. Use your creativity to make it unique! Baking gives the salmon a nice, even cook. It creates a crispy crust and keeps the fish juicy. Air frying cooks faster and can make the crust even crispier. If you want a quick meal, consider air frying. Both methods work great, so choose what fits your time. Pair this salmon with many sides. Sautéed spinach adds a nice touch and color. Roasted vegetables bring out a sweet flavor. You could even serve it with a light salad for a fresh bite. Think about how each side complements the salmon and enjoy! Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. This helps keep the fish fresh. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Always label the container with the date. This way, you will know when to eat it. To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil to avoid drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes. Check if it's warm enough. This method keeps the crust crispy. You can freeze the salmon if you have more than you can eat. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can use Pecorino Romano cheese. It has a strong flavor too. Another option is nutritional yeast. It is dairy-free and adds a nice cheesy taste. For a milder flavor, try using Grana Padano cheese. Each option will give your dish a unique twist. Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets. The crust will still stick well. However, the skin adds flavor and helps keep the salmon moist. If you prefer skinless, make sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The meat should be opaque and no longer translucent. You can also use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating. Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook the salmon ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven to keep it crispy. Pair it with veggies or grains for a quick meal. This post covered all you need for a great salmon dish. We explored the ingredients and offered step-by-step instructions for cooking. You learned tips for a crispy crust and creative variations to try. Storing leftovers and reheating properly ensures nothing goes to waste. Remember, cooking should be fun and tasty. Enjoy every bite, your meal will shine!

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon

A delicious salmon fillet topped with a crispy Parmesan and panko crust, baked to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon (with skin)
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 2 panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 whole lemon (zest and juice)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To simplify cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the zest of the lemon. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  • Take 1 tablespoon of olive oil and drizzle it over the skin side of each salmon fillet. Use a brush or a spoon to spread the oil evenly. Season the fillets with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  • Flip the fillets over so they are skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Generously press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet, making sure it adheres well for a delicious crust.
  • Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the crusted salmon to promote richness and crispiness during baking.
  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes. Watch for the salmon to be cooked through and the topping to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.
  • Once baked, carefully remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving to add a zesty finish.

Notes

For an elegant touch, serve the salmon fillets on a bed of sautéed spinach or beside a medley of roasted vegetables. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional parsley.
Keyword baked, Parmesan, salmon, seafood