Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly roasted salmon fillet, its golden herb crust crackling with every bite, revealing tender, succulent fish underneath. This Herb Crusted Roasted Salmon isn't just another dinner recipe—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into a gourmet masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the salmon, ensuring it cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the oil and the herbs are distributed throughout the mixture.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the fish and complement the herb crust.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Evenly distribute the herb and breadcrumb mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing it down gently to ensure it adheres well to the fish.
- Once all the fillets are coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
- Keep an eye on the salmon towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish, keeping it moist.
- Serve the herb crusted roasted salmon with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh, High-Quality Salmon: The key to an exceptional dish starts with selecting fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Look for bright, firm flesh with a clean ocean smell.
- Pat Salmon Dry: Before seasoning, use paper towels to thoroughly pat the salmon dry. This helps the herb crust adhere better and ensures a crispier texture.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let your salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking and prevents the fish from being too cold in the center.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each fillet enough space to allow hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can work, fresh dill and parsley will provide a more vibrant, bright flavor to your herb crust.
- Test for Doneness: The salmon is perfectly cooked when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let It Rest: Always allow the salmon to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This helps retain its moisture and ensures a more tender texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg