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Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe for the Perfect Romantic Valentine’s Dinner

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This Parmesan crusted salmon features a golden, cheesy crust with a hint of lemon and garlic, making it the perfect quick and impressive main course for a romantic Valentine’s dinner or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), pin bones removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about half a lemon)
  • 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Extra chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. For extra crunch, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Check for pin bones and remove any with tweezers.
  3. Brush both sides of the salmon with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. In a small mixing bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, melted butter, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, and Italian herbs. Stir until evenly moistened.
  5. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard on the top side of each salmon fillet.
  6. Divide the Parmesan mixture evenly among the fillets and gently press it onto the top of each fillet.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may take up to 15 minutes; thinner fillets may be done in 10–12 minutes.
  8. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  9. Let the salmon rest on the pan for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  10. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and pat the salmon dry before adding the crust. The Dijon mustard layer helps the crust adhere and adds subtle flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko. Broil briefly at the end for an extra-crispy crust, but watch closely to avoid burning. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven to revive the crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: parmesan crusted salmon, Valentine’s dinner, romantic salmon recipe, easy salmon, baked salmon, panko crusted salmon, date night dinner, healthy salmon recipe

Find it online: https://evabake.com/parmesan-crusted-salmon-recipe-for-the-perfect-romantic-valentines-dinner/