Description
This Amazing Panko Crusted Salmon recipe delivers a perfectly baked salmon fillet topped with a golden, crispy panko breadcrumb crust. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and garlic for a flavorful weeknight dinner option that’s both impressive and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Mustard and Lemon Topping
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Panko Crust
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor and color.
- Apply Mustard and Lemon Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Brush this tangy mixture evenly over the top surface of each salmon fillet to add moisture and zest.
- Prepare Panko Crust: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. Stir until the crumbs are uniformly coated with the flavors.
- Top Salmon with Panko Mixture: Firmly press the panko mixture onto the mustard-coated side of each salmon fillet to create an even and compact crust that will crisp up beautifully.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets crust-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the crust turns golden brown.
- Optional Broiling: For extra crispiness, set the oven to broil and broil the salmon for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh dill for parsley for a different flavor profile.
- For added crunch, lightly toast the panko in a skillet before mixing with the other topping ingredients.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
