This Walnut Crusted Salmon is a tasty dish that brings together flaky fish and crunchy nuts. The walnuts add a fun texture while the herbs and spices give it a lovely flavor boost!
Making this dish always feels special, and the best part? The aroma wafting through the kitchen makes my family appear like magic! 🍽️ Serve it with some veggies, and dinner’s a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe. If it’s unavailable, consider using trout or even tilapia. Both work nicely with the walnut crust.
Walnuts: Walnuts bring a rich, nutty flavor. If allergies are a concern, pecans or sunflower seeds can be a great substitute that still offers crunch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crispy texture. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs work too, though they may not be as crunchy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also be used if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds a fresh touch, but feel free to use dill or basil for a twist. Fresh herbs make the flavor pop, so don’t skip them!
How Do You Achieve a Crispy Walnut Crust?
Getting that perfect crust is key to this dish. It’s all about packing the walnut mixture onto the salmon properly and baking it at the right temperature.
- Ensure your salmon fillets are dry before spreading the walnut mixture — this helps it stick better.
- Press the walnut mix firmly onto the fish to create a good seal that holds during baking.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for around 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary with thickness of the fillets.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously crunchy crust that pairs beautifully with the tender salmon! Enjoy your meal! 🐟🥦
How to Make Walnut Crusted Salmon with Roasted Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped or ground
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
For the Roasted Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Lemon slices or wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need approximately 25-30 minutes to have a delicious meal ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will ensure your salmon gets a nice and crispy crust! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Walnut Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be the delicious crust that goes on top of the salmon!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the crust stick better. Brush the tops of each fillet with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to add flavor and moisture.
4. Create the Walnut Crust:
Take the walnut mixture and press it firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure it’s packed well so that it holds together while baking.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the salmon fillets on one side of the prepared baking sheet. This is where the magic starts to happen!
6. Prepare the Asparagus:
On the other side of the baking sheet, lay out the trimmed asparagus. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake it All Together:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through, and the walnut crust should be golden and crisp. The asparagus will be tender but still have a nice crispness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove from the oven. Serve each salmon fillet on a bed of roasted asparagus. Garnish with lemon slices or wedges for a burst of brightness!
9. Optional Finishing Touch:
For an extra zing, feel free to squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the salmon and asparagus just before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful and crunchy Walnut Crusted Salmon served with savory roasted asparagus! It’s a wonderful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can also use trout or even tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
How Can I Make the Walnut Crust More Flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a herby twist. Grated Parmesan cheese can also add richness to the crust!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the walnut mixture and coat the salmon fillets a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can help the flavors meld together even more!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy!