This Walnut Crusted Salmon is a tasty dish that pairs crispy walnuts with tender salmon, creating a perfect mix of crunchy and soft textures. It’s also a breeze to prepare!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just coat the salmon with a walnut mix and bake. It makes me feel like a chef, even if my kitchen skills are still a work in progress! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, but if you’re on a budget, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. I also enjoy using trout as an alternative for its mild flavor.
Walnuts: Walnuts give a rich, nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or dislike walnuts, pecans or almonds can work well instead. Just chop them finely, like you would walnuts.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a lovely crunch to the crust. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but the texture might be a bit softer. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is great here, but feel free to swap it with green beans or broccoli if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure they’re trimmed to the right size to cook evenly.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, yellow mustard or even a bit of mayonnaise blended with lemon juice can work as a substitute for a similar effect without the spice.
How Do I Create a Crispy Walnut Crust?
Creating that perfect crust is all about texture and moisture balance. First, make sure to pat the salmon fillets dry – this helps the crust stick better and gets things nice and crispy. When spreading on the Dijon mustard, use just enough to coat the top of the fillet.
- Mix the walnuts, panko, parsley, garlic powder, zest, salt, and pepper well to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Press the mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated side of the salmon. Don’t be shy here; the more you press, the better it will hold its shape in the oven.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the crust for added richness and to promote browning while baking.
Lastly, watch the baking time closely. Salmon cooks quickly, and you want the crust to turn golden but not burn. When the salmon flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready!
How to Make Walnut Crusted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Walnut Crusted Salmon recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 minutes to bake. All in all, you can have this lovely meal ready in about 25-30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick dinner party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Prepare the Walnut Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and set it aside; this will be the delicious crust for your salmon!
3. Coat the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the crust stick better. Now, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the top of each fillet. The mustard adds flavor and helps the walnut mixture adhere.
4. Create the Walnut Crust:
Now it’s time to add that wonderful crunch! Firmly press the walnut and breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard-coated side of each fillet. Make sure the crust is even and fully covers the salmon—this will give you a tasty, crispy topping.
5. Prepare the Asparagus:
In a separate bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This will add flavor and ensure they roast nicely in the oven.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned asparagus out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Place the crusted salmon fillets on top of the asparagus, spacing them out as needed. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the tops of the salmon to promote browning. Yum!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the walnut crust is a lovely golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully arrange the salmon over the asparagus on your serving plates. Drizzle balsamic glaze around the asparagus for a tangy touch, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a cheerful presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place the sealed fillets in a bowl of cold water for a quicker option.
Can I Substitute the Walnuts?
Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer a different flavor, you can use pecans or almonds instead. Just chop them finely to maintain a similar texture in the crust.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the salmon again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables such as green beans or broccoli. Just make sure to cut them to similar sizes to ensure even cooking alongside the salmon.
