Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly baked salmon fillet, especially when it’s topped with a crunchy and flavorful pistachio crust. This Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon recipe takes advantage of the natural richness of the fish, enhanced by a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is as impressive as it is simple to prepare.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. The nutty flavor of the pistachios pairs beautifully with the tender salmon, while the zing from the lemon juice and garlic adds a fresh kick. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinner parties. With the added bonus of being healthy and packed with protein, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredient List

• 1 1/2 pound whole salmon fillet, skin on
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup crushed pistachios
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Lemon wedges for serving, optional

Cook’s Kit

• Oven-safe baking dish – for roasting the salmon.
• Mixing bowls – to combine your ingredients.
• Whisk – for mixing the topping ingredients.
• Sharp knife – for portioning the salmon if desired.
• Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure precise ingredient measurements.

Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and the crust gets nice and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place the salmon fillet skin-side down in a lightly greased baking dish. Season the fish generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. This mixture will add a beautiful flavor to the salmon beneath the crust.

Step 4: Combine the Crust Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, crushed pistachios, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Pour the lemon mixture over the crust ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Apply the Crust

Spread the pistachio mixture evenly over the salmon fillet, pressing down slightly to ensure it adheres well.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute with whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.
• Almonds can be used instead of pistachios if you prefer a different nut or if you have a nut allergy.
• For a gluten-free version, swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a great alternative that adds a similar sweetness.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overbaking the salmon can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• A crust that doesn’t stick can be avoided by pressing it firmly onto the salmon before baking.
• Make sure to use fresh ingredients. Old garlic or stale nuts can alter the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t skip seasoning the salmon before adding the crust; it enhances the overall flavor.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the crust’s texture while warming the salmon. If you wish to freeze it, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use salmon fillets instead of a whole fillet?

Yes, salmon fillets work perfectly! Just adjust the baking time based on the thickness of each fillet.

What can I serve with this salmon dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is there a way to make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pistachio crust for a spicy kick.

Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust mixture a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for delightful dessert recipes.
• Pinch of Yum for quick and easy meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.
• Food Network for classic and contemporary recipes alike.

That’s a Wrap

With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, this Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. The combination of fresh ingredients and the rich taste of salmon creates a dish that is both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re dressing it up for a celebration or enjoying it on a casual weeknight, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a meal that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Happy cooking!