Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings a heavenly crunch to tender salmon fillets. If you’re searching for a quick way to impress your family or guests with a delicious meal, then this recipe is perfect for you.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Salmon is known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which is beneficial for heart health and cognitive function. Combining it with a crispy Parmesan crust adds a savory flavor that elevates the dish, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, with just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in no time!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
Cooking Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake is a straightforward process that anyone can master, regardless of cooking experience. The combination of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a crunchy topping that perfectly complements the rich, flaky salmon underneath. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil.
- Coat the tops of the salmon fillets with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Success Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
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Choose Fresh Salmon: Always opt for fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, moist flesh without a fishy smell.
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Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C) for perfectly flaky fish.
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Customize the Crust: Feel free to add herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor, or spice it up with some red pepper flakes.
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Make it Ahead: You can prepare the salmon fillets a few hours in advance, coating them in the breadcrumb mixture. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Flavor Variations Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
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Herb-Infused Crust: Add finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
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Spicy Cajun Style: Incorporate Cajun seasoning into the crust for a little kick and additional depth of flavor.
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Lemon Zest Addition: Grate some lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture to add a refreshing citrus note.
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Italian Pesto Twist: Spread a thin layer of pesto on the salmon before adding the Parmesan crust for a burst of Italian flavor.
Serving Suggestions Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options:
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the rich salmon well.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with tomatoes and cucumber provides a refreshing balance to the baked fish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer a comforting addition to this elegant dish.
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Caesar Salad: Tossed Caesar salad is a classic pairing that enhances the meal with crispness and tang.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
To store leftover salmon, let it cool down completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-12 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|————–|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 7g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
FAQ About Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture before coating with the Parmesan mixture to ensure a crispy crust.
Is it necessary to skin the salmon fillets?
No, it’s not necessary to remove the skin from the salmon fillets. Cooking the salmon with the skin on can help retain moisture and flavor. If you prefer skinless, feel free to remove it before baking.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a quality cheddar. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings ahead of time. Just store the mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use it.
What side dishes go well with crispy Parmesan salmon?
Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Popular choices include roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or fluffy rice, making it a versatile dish that can suit many palettes and occasions.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. You should also look for a golden brown crust on top, which adds texture and flavor to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake is an easy yet elegant way to bring something special to your table. Packed with flavor, it’s a dish that even those who are less enthusiastic about seafood will love. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that is both healthy and delicious. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this salmon recipe promises to leave everyone asking for seconds!
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Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make dish featuring salmon fillets topped with a crunchy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil.
- Coat the tops of the salmon fillets with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For best results, use fresh salmon and do not overcook. Customize the breadcrumb mixture with herbs or spices as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
