Introduction to Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Are you looking for a quick yet flavorful dinner option that’s sure to impress? Look no further than Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown crust contrasts beautifully with the tender and flaky salmon, making every bite a joy.
What makes Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon a must-try?
The secret to its popularity lies in the simplicity and the robust flavors of the ingredients. Freshly shredded parmesan, combined with panko breadcrumbs, creates a crispy topping that locks in moisture while also adding a savory kick. Plus, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to your preferences; consider adding fresh herbs like dill or a zing of lemon to elevate it even further!
Not to mention, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their numerous health benefits. This makes Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon not just a delicious choice, but also a nutritious one! So why not try your hand at this recipe and impress your friends or enjoy a cozy night in? It could very well become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. Check out Cooking Classy for more culinary inspiration and elevate your cooking game!
Ingredients for Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Essential items you need
Cooking up a delicious Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon is simpler than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Salmon Fillets: 4 (6-7 oz each), skinless.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: ¾ cup for that crunchy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¾ cup finely shredded for a savory kick.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 ½ tablespoons, chopped, to add a burst of freshness.
- Garlic Powder: ¾ teaspoon for a hint of warmth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon to help with that golden-brown crust.
- Egg: 1 large, for binding.
- Lemon Slices: For a zesty finish.
Where to find quality ingredients
When it comes to sourcing these ingredients, opt for your local grocery store or farmer’s market for fresh salmon and herbs. For the best Parmesan cheese, look for high-quality brands, like Sartori SarVecchio, available at stores like Target. Panko bread crumbs can often be found in the baking aisle or ethnic foods section of larger supermarkets. Organic and fresh ingredients not only elevate the taste but also promote a healthier dish. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Cooking at home can feel like an adventure, especially when you’re preparing a delicious dish like Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon. This recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Follow these steps, and you'll have a meal everyone will rave about!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help achieve that delightful crispiness on the salmon. While the oven heats up, you can multitask by preparing your baking sheet. Spray an oven-safe wire rack with non-stick cooking spray and place it over a rimmed baking sheet. This setup ensures the heat circulates around the salmon evenly, giving that beautiful crust we’re going for.
Prepare the Panko Mixture
In a shallow dish, it’s time to get your panko mixture ready. Combine ¾ cup of panko bread crumbs, ¾ cup of finely shredded parmesan, 2 ½ tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste—about ¾ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper works wonders. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mix everything well. The olive oil ensures your crumbs will crisp up beautifully in the oven, making each bite irresistible.
Dredging the Salmon
Now for the fun part—preparing the salmon! Take your skinless salmon fillets (approximately 6–7 ounces each) and place them in a separate shallow dish. Whisk one large egg in this dish until it's blended well. Take one piece of salmon at a time and dredge it in the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. This step is critical as it helps the panko adhere to the fish, making your crust stickier and more flavorful.
Coating the Salmon
After dredging in the egg, transfer the salmon to the panko mixture. Coat both sides generously, pressing down slightly as you do. For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle some of the mixture over the top of each fillet and press gently to ensure it sticks. This is what will create that savory crust that complements the salmon beautifully.
Baking the Salmon
Place your coated salmon on the prepared wire rack and repeat the process with the remaining fillets. If you have extra panko mixture, don't hesitate to sprinkle it on top—just remember to press down gently. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes. Baking time can vary based on the thickness of your salmon, so keep an eye on it. When it's barely cooked through, you know you're ready to enjoy your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon!
Serve immediately with lemon slices for a zesty twist. Enjoy!
Variations on Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Add a twist with lemon zest
Elevate your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon by adding a burst of freshness from lemon zest. Simply grate the zest of one lemon into your panko and parmesan mixture before coating the salmon. This brightens the flavors and adds a delightful aromatic touch. As the fish bakes, those citrus notes will waft through your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting before serving!
Spice it up with different herbs
Want to shake things up? Customize your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon by experimenting with various fresh herbs. Consider using dill, tarragon, or even a little thyme for an earthy essence. Simply substitute or mix in any herbs you love alongside the parsley. This small change can make a big difference, transforming your dish into something uniquely yours!
For more ideas on flavor combinations, check out Cooking Classy. Enjoy making it your own!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Achieving the perfect crust
To get that golden, crispy crust on your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon, use panko bread crumbs as they create a delightful texture. Make sure to drizzle olive oil into the mix and toss thoroughly—this helps in achieving that cruchy deliciousness that complements the tender salmon. If you’re finding your crust browning too fast, don’t hesitate to tent it with foil to prevent burning.
Adjusting bake time for fillet thickness
This recipe usually takes about 10-15 minutes, but if your salmon fillets are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to extend the baking time. Always keep an eye on your salmon; it should be cooked through but remain moist and flaky. Using a fork, check for doneness by poking the thickest part. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Pairing with Fresh Veggies
To complement your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon, consider serving it alongside a vibrant mix of fresh veggies. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach adds a lovely green contrast, while a medley of roasted bell peppers and zucchini can bring a splash of color and flavor. Not only do they provide balance on your plate, but they're also a nutritious choice that enhances the dish's overall profile. For a refreshing twist, try a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Creative Side Dish Ideas
To elevate your meal further, think outside the box! Quinoa or farro stirred with herbs can add texture, while a creamy garlic mashed potato provides a comfort food vibe. If you’re looking for something lighter, a citrus or berry couscous offers a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with salmon. Feel free to get creative—maybe even try some homemade sweet potato fries for a fun crunch. The options are endless, so mix and match according to your taste preferences!
Time Breakdown for Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Preparation time
Getting ready for this delicious Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon takes about 10 minutes. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and you’re set to impress!
Cooking time
Once everything’s prepped, bake the salmon for around 10-15 minutes. The precise cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them!
Total time
In total, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes to enjoy this healthy, flavorful meal! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal with loved ones.
If you want to dive deeper into perfecting your technique, check out resources like the American Heart Association for tips on cooking fish. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
When diving into the delicious world of Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon, it's good to know what you're fueling your body with. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts you can expect from this delightful dish:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy option for dinner.
Protein
You'll be happy to know this dish offers around 34 grams of protein, making it a fantastic source to help build and repair muscles, especially for those with active lifestyles.
Fats
With about 20 grams of total fat, including healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, this meal supports heart health while offering a satisfying richness.
Enjoy making this tasty dish knowing that it's not just enjoyable for your taste buds, but also nourishing for your body! If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this article on the benefits of eating salmon.
FAQs about Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
How can I make my salmon more flavorful?
To amp up the flavor of your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon, consider marinating the salmon for a few hours in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme before breading. You can also experiment with adding spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to the panko mixture for a bit of kick!
What should I serve with salmon?
Pairing is key! For a well-rounded meal, serve your Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with:
- Roasted vegetables (like asparagus or Brussels sprouts)
- A fresh salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette
- Quinoa or rice pilaf for a hearty side
- Mashed potatoes for a comforting touch
Don’t forget some lemon wedges for that zesty finish!
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon before preparing. A good way to thaw it is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method—submerge the sealed salmon in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. This way, you can still enjoy that delicious Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon!
Conclusion on Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
You'll love this Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a nutritious meal that impresses friends and family alike. Dive into this culinary treat and savor every bite—you won't be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just a few simple steps.
- Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a heart-healthy choice.
- Versatile Flavors: The crispy panko and parmesan crust provide a delicious crunch that pairs beautifully with fresh lemon.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds with this flavorful twist on salmon!
By incorporating this dish into your weekly rotation, you’ll not only enhance your menu but also your cooking skills. Looking for similar recipes? Check out our delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta or Mediterranean Grilled Chicken for more inspiration!
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon: Easy and Indulgent Weeknight Meal
Equipment
- oven
- Baking Sheet
- wire rack
- Shallow dish
Ingredients
- 4 fillets skinless salmon 6-7 oz each
- ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¾ cup finely shredded Parmesan
- 2 ½ tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 4 lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray an oven safe wire cooling rack with non-stick cooking spray and set over a rimmed 18 by 13-inch baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish toss together panko, parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, salt and pepper (I use about ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper). Drizzle in olive oil and toss well to evenly coat mixture.
- In a separate shallow dish beat the egg until yolk and white are well blended.
- Working with one piece of salmon at a time dredge each side in egg, then transfer to panko mixture and coat and press both sides of salmon in panko mixture (also sprinkle panko mixture over top and press to help stick).
- Transfer to prepared wire rack on baking sheet. Repeat process with remaining 3 portions (If you have extra breading sprinkle over fillets and gently press down to and even layer so they brown evenly).
- Bake in preheated oven until salmon is barely cooked through, about 10 - 15 minutes (bake time will vary based on thickness of salmon).
- Serve with lemon slices for spritzing over.
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