Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 (6 – 8 oz each) salmon filets (skin on or skinless)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Crust Mixture
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 Tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup very finely chopped pecans
- 4 tsp minced fresh parsley
Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Make the Mustard Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir until smooth and well blended; this will coat the salmon and add flavor and moisture.
- Prepare the Crust Mixture: In another small mixing bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, finely chopped pecans, minced fresh parsley, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika to form the crunchy topping for the salmon.
- Prepare the Salmon Filets: Place the salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet. Pat each dry gently with paper towels to ensure proper adhesion. Brush each filet on both sides with the mustard butter mixture evenly.
- Add the Crust Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb-pecan mixture evenly over the tops of the salmon filets. Gently press the mixture into the fish so it adheres well and forms a crust during baking.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The breadcrumb topping should be golden and slightly crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of minced fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use either regular or panko breadcrumbs depending on your preferred texture for the crust.
- Salmon filets can be skin-on or skinless, but skin-on helps keep the fish moist during baking.
- Adjust baking time if your filet thickness varies; fish is done when it flakes easily.
- For a nuttier crust, lightly toast the pecans before chopping.
- Use fresh lemon juice squeezed over the salmon just before serving for added brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat