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Close-up of delicious Herb Crusted Salmon with a vibrant green herb crust, perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Herb Crusted Salmon

This Herb Crusted Salmon recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner option. The vibrant herb crust, made with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest, perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs optional
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
  • Small bowl
  • Fork
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer on top of each fillet.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, dill, chives, lemon zest, panko breadcrumbs (if using), and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well with a fork until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  5. Spoon the herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
  6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Check for doneness: The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
  8. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.

Notes

For a less soggy crust, pat the salmon dry. If the crust browns too quickly, tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil. Experiment with different herb combinations, such as rosemary and thyme. Leftover salmon can be used in salads, tacos, or pasta dishes. The herb crust mixture can be prepared a day in advance.