Baked Crusted Dijon Salmon

Introduction:
Elevate your dinner with Baked Crusted Dijon Salmon! This flavorful dish features salmon fillets topped with a tangy Dijon mustard and breadcrumb crust, then baked to perfection. With a golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy fish inside, it’s an easy and elegant meal that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple preparation: Easy to make with minimal ingredients and effort.
• Flavor-packed: The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the salmon beautifully.
• Healthy: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and a great source of lean protein.
• Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides for a balanced meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

1. Prepare the Salmon:

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

1. Make the Crust Mixture:

• In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir in olive oil until the mixture is evenly coated and resembles coarse crumbs.

1. Apply the Dijon Mustard:

• Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the top of each salmon fillet.

1. Top with Breadcrumb Mixture:

• Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard-coated salmon fillets, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.

1. Bake:

• Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. The salmon should easily flake with a fork.

1. Serve:

• Transfer the salmon fillets to serving plates. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Freshness: Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Frozen salmon can be used if thawed properly.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Doneness: For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Recipe Variations:

• Herb Variations: Swap out the herbs for your favorites, such as dill or basil, to customize the flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for some extra heat.
• Cheesy Crust: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for a cheesy twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Vegetable Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
• Starches: Pair with quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Sauce: Drizzle with a light lemon dill sauce or a simple vinaigrette for added flavor.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon fillets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or gently microwave individual portions.

Special Equipment:

• Baking Sheet: For baking the salmon fillets.
• Parchment Paper: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

FAQ:

• Can I use whole grain mustard instead of Dijon?
  Yes, whole grain mustard will work and provide a different texture and flavor.
• Can I make the crust ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to use.
• What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
  You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute if needed.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for preparing the salmon and crust mixture.

Cook Time:

• 15-20 minutes for baking the salmon.

Total Time:

• 25-30 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

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Closing Notes:
Have you tried making this Baked Crusted Dijon Salmon? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious creations and check back for more tasty and easy recipes.