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Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake

Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
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This Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake features tender, flaky salmon topped with a golden, crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make dish offers a perfect balance of cheesy, savory flavors with a fresh herbal brightness. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it delivers a healthy, omega-3 rich meal with a delightful texture contrast in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chopped parsley or dill)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the crust adheres well. Lightly season both sides of the salmon with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Make the Parmesan Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, chopped fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the melted butter or olive oil and mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and start to clump together slightly.
  3. Apply the Crust on the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down if your fillets have skin. Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly and gently on top of each fillet, creating a compact layer that will crisp up nicely during baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork. Avoid overbaking to retain moisture and tenderness in the fish.
  5. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and optional chopped parsley or dill for garnish.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best crisping results; pre-grated cheese may contain additives that hinder crust formation.
  • Make sure to dry the salmon completely before adding the crust to ensure it sticks and crisps well.
  • Don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs as they provide the signature airy crunch.
  • Press the crust firmly onto the salmon to prevent it from falling off while baking.
  • Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking will dry out the salmon.
  • You can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture a day ahead and store it refrigerated for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon bake, Parmesan crust, crispy salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy fish dinner, panko salmon, baked salmon

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/irresistibly-crispy-parmesan-salmon-bake/