Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Craving a dish that’s both elegant and effortless? Look no further than this delectable Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe. The combination of crunchy panko and golden Parmesan atop juicy salmon, all tied together with a tangy lemon cream sauce, is a true winner. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress without keeping you tied up in the kitchen for hours.

I first tried this Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe at a holiday dinner party, and it was an instant hit. The crispy topping, even with sauce drizzled over it, had everyone raving. And let’s not forget about that lemon cream sauce—it’s the magic touch that takes this dish to the next level. Don’t make the same mistake I did by skipping the sauce; it’s an essential component that brings all the flavors together harmoniously.

Prep ahead by assembling the salmon with the topping and sauce, then pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Leftovers can easily be enjoyed the next day by gently reheating the salmon to maintain that delightful crunch. Whether you serve it with roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad, this Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and savor the delightful marriage of flavors in every bite!

Quick Benefits

• Impressive yet easy meal to make
• Versatile dish suitable for both special occasions and weeknights
• Crunchy parmesan crust stays crispy even with sauce poured over it
• Make-ahead option reduces stress for dinner parties and gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe Recipe

• Impressive yet Easy: The dish looks and tastes fancy, perfect for special occasions, but is surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crunchy and Juicy: The golden parmesan and panko crust adds a delightful crunch to the juicy salmon, creating a textural contrast that’s immensely satisfying.
• Tangy Lemon Cream Sauce: The tangy lemon cream sauce elevates the dish and ties all the flavors together beautifully, taking it to the next level.
• Prep-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the topping, sauce, and salmon in advance, up to 24 hours, making it a stress-free option for dinner parties or special occasions.
• Crispy Topping: The parmesan crust stays crispy even with the sauce poured over it, ensuring that each bite provides a delightful crunch.
• Leftover Potential: Any extra salmon can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, and the topping can be kept crunchy by reheating in the oven, making it a delicious leftover option.
• Versatile: The dish can be customized with variations like using orange instead of lemon in the sauce, adding herbs to the breadcrumb mixture, or incorporating a hint of cayenne for some heat.
• Pairing Suggestions: Goes well with oven-roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, side salads, or warm dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce—making it a versatile main course option.

Ingredients for Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Salmon

• 1 side of salmon (weighing around 2 to 2.8 lbs)
• 3-4 tablespoons of Dijon mustard

Parmesan Crumb

• Zest from one lemon
• 3 tablespoons of melted butter
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons roughly chopped dill
• Half a teaspoon of salt
• Cooking spray for oil
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• A dash of black pepper
• One cup of crunchy panko crumbs

Lemon Cream Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups of thick heavy cream
• Half a teaspoon of sugar
• 1 1/4 cups of a dry white wine
• 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 finely diced eschallot
• Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Serving

• Watercress
• Fresh dill sprigs
• Lemon wedges

Pro Tips for Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Pro Tip #1: To ensure a perfectly crispy topping, make sure to pat the salmon dry before spreading the Dijon mustard and sprinkling the Parmesan and panko mixture. This helps the crust adhere better and crisp up nicely in the oven.

Pro Tip #2: Don’t skip the lemon cream sauce—it truly elevates the dish and ties all the flavors together. Make the sauce ahead of time to save time and stress when it comes to serving. Just remember to warm it up slowly before drizzling over the cooked salmon to maintain the creamy texture.

Pro Tip #3: Experiment with different variations to customize the dish to your liking. Try adding fresh herbs like dill to the breadcrumb mixture or incorporating a hint of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also swap out the lemon in the sauce with orange for a sweeter flavor profile. These small tweaks can add a new dimension to the dish and keep things exciting for your taste buds.

How to Make Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Get the Salmon Ready

Allow the salmon to come to room temperature before cooking.

Step 2: Crunch Up the Panko

Preheat oven to 390°F. Spread panko on a baking pan, spray with oil, and toast for 3-5 minutes until golden. Transfer toasted panko to a bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Crumb

Combine melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, Parmesan, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Top the Salmon

Line a tray with aluminum foil, then place the salmon on top. Spread mustard over the salmon and coat it evenly with the crumb mixture.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until desired doneness. Remove from oven and gently loosen from foil.

Step 6: Get the Sauce Going

Melt butter in a pan over medium-high heat, then sauté shallots for 2 minutes. Add wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in cream, sugar, salt, pepper, mustard, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened, then taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 8: Dish It Out

Arrange watercress on a plate. Place salmon on top, remove foil. Drizzle with sauce, garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Parmesan Crusted Salmon, if you have any leftovers, it’s best to store them properly. To store any extra salmon, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to a couple of days. Make sure to store the lemon cream sauce separately in another container. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the salmon in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes to help maintain the crunchy topping texture. You can also repurpose the leftover salmon by breaking it up into a cold salad the next day for a refreshing meal.

For advanced preparation, you can assemble the Parmesan Crusted Salmon ahead of time by topping the salmon and keeping it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Similarly, you can make the lemon cream sauce in advance, letting it cool down and then gently reheating it before serving. These make-ahead tips can be especially helpful when hosting dinner parties, saving you time and reducing stress on the day of the event. By following these storage and preparation tips, you can continue to enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of this dish even after the initial cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist on this dish, you can substitute the salmon with a thick slice of tofu or a portobello mushroom cap. Both options can be marinated in the Dijon mustard and coated in the parmesan and panko mixture for a flavorful and crunchy alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the substitute ingredient chosen.

If you prefer a lighter version of the lemon cream sauce, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream. This substitution will result in a dairy-free and vegan-friendly sauce that still provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices in the sauce, such as adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of dried thyme for a unique twist on the original recipe.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation of this Parmesan Crusted Salmon, consider serving it on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful risotto. The lemon cream sauce can be drizzled over the salmon and the side dish to tie the flavors together beautifully. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and a wedge of lemon for a pop of color and freshness. To add some texture contrast, serve the dish with a side of crisp-tender asparagus or roasted vegetables.

To elevate the leftovers of the Parmesan Crusted Salmon, consider flaking the cold salmon into a refreshing salad. Toss the salmon with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The crispy topping will add a delightful crunch to the salad, creating a new way to enjoy the flavors of this dish. Serve the salmon salad with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Delicious Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Can I prepare the parmesan crusted salmon in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salmon with the topping and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. The lemon cream sauce can also be made ahead of time; simply cool it down and warm it up slowly before serving.

How can I reheat leftover salmon to maintain the crispy topping?

To reheat leftover salmon and maintain the crispy topping, heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Store any extra sauce separately and add it back when serving.

Can I make any variations to the lemon cream sauce?

Yes, you can customize the lemon cream sauce by using orange instead of lemon for a sweeter flavor. You can also mix in fresh chopped dill or add a tiny bit of cayenne pepper for a herb or spicy kick to the sauce.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with the parmesan crusted salmon?

This parmesan crusted salmon pairs well with oven-roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, a fresh side salad, or warm dinner rolls to soak up the tasty lemon cream sauce. Feel free to experiment with different sides based on your preferences.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe a try soon! It’s a fantastic dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a special meal. The combination of the crunchy parmesan crust and the tangy lemon cream sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Don’t forget to savor every bite and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come together in this dish.

Remember, cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe allows you to create a gourmet meal with ease. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table. Share it with your loved ones and watch their faces light up with delight as they savor the flavorful delights of Parmesan Crusted Salmon.