Baked Pistachio and Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe
This Baked Pistachio and Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a flavorful and elegant seafood dish featuring tender salmon fillets topped with a crunchy mixture of crushed pistachios, parmesan cheese, and garlic. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that complements the nutty and cheesy crust, while baking ensures the salmon stays moist and perfectly cooked. A simple garnish of parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 salmon portions, 6 ounces each
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
- Parsley, chopped, optional (for garnish)
Crust Mixture
- ¼ cup pistachios, crushed
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking dish. Season each portion generously with salt and black pepper. Spread 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard evenly over the top of the salmon to add flavor and help the crust adhere.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the crushed pistachios, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated to form a crumbly topping.
- Apply Crust: Spoon the pistachio and Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Gently press the topping onto the salmon to ensure it sticks during baking.
- Bake Salmon: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust is lightly browned.
- Optional Broiling: If you want a crispier and more golden crust, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately with fresh lemon slices for squeezing over the top to add brightness and acidity.
Notes
- Adjust baking time according to the thickness of your salmon fillets to prevent overcooking.
- Crush pistachios finely but not into powder to maintain a crunchy texture.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture in the crust.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and omit Parmesan cheese, replacing it with nutritional yeast if desired.
- Leftover salmon is great cold in salads or gently reheated.
