Description

This Panko-Crusted Salmon recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on classic baked salmon. Coated with a tangy Dijon mustard and mayonnaise mixture and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs infused with fresh herbs and lemon zest, it creates a delicious golden crust. Baked to perfection, it’s a simple, elegant main course perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Coating

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Lemon wedges (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prepare Mustard Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well blended. This mixture will add moisture and tang to the salmon while helping the panko adhere.
Mix Panko Topping: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the panko is evenly coated with oil and seasonings; this ensures a golden, flavorful crust.
Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the topping sticks properly. Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Apply Mustard Layer: Spread a thin, even layer of the mustard mixture on the top of each salmon fillet. This will act as an adhesive for the panko crust and add zesty flavor.
Add Panko Crust: Press the panko mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated top of each fillet. Make sure it adheres well to create a nice crust after baking.
Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is nicely golden brown.
Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, broil the salmon for the last 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of citrus flavor.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the salmon for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
You can substitute fresh dill or chives for parsley to vary the herb flavor according to your preference.
Ensure salmon fillets are patted completely dry before applying the mustard and panko for better adhesion and crust.
Use high-quality Dijon mustard and fresh lemon zest to enhance the overall flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet (6 ounces)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg