Panko Crusted Salmon

A delicious and flavorful Panko Crusted Salmon recipe is perfect for any night of the week. Made with simple ingredients, this dish offers a delightful crunch from panko breadcrumbs, enhancing the rich taste of salmon. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and impressive presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 32 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Crunch: The panko crust adds a delightful texture, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with various sides like steamed vegetables or rice to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s both nutritious and filling.
• Elegant Presentation: The golden crust makes it visually appealing, perfect for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the best flavor.
• Fork: Useful for mashing butter into the panko mixture evenly.

Ingredients

A delicious and flavorful Panko Crusted Salmon recipe that is perfect for any night of the week and made with simple ingredients!

For the Salmon

• 1/2 cup panko
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• (4) 4-6oz salmon fillets (1 inch thick)

Serving suggestion: add a drizzle of melted butter when serving.

How to Make Panko Crusted Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Panko Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine 1/2 cup panko, 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/3 cup fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
2. Use a fork to break apart the butter and combine all ingredients until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a deep baking dish.
– Add a generous layer of the panko mixture on top of each piece of salmon.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place the baking dish in the oven on the middle rack.
– Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until an internal thermometer registers 140 degrees F at the thickest part.

Step 5: Serve

Remove salmon from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Serve with additional melted butter drizzled over top (optional), accompanied by roasted broccolini and wild rice if desired.

How to Serve Panko Crusted Salmon

Panko crusted salmon is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a variety of greens and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
• Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing balances well with the crunchy panko topping.

With Starches

• Wild Rice: Nutty wild rice adds texture and flavor, making it a perfect base for the salmon.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs nicely with the flaky fish.

With Sauces

• Lemon Butter Sauce: A drizzle of lemon butter sauce brightens up the dish and enhances the flavors.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli adds a rich, garlicky punch that complements the crispy crust.

Vegetables

• Roasted Broccolini: The slight bitterness of broccolini contrasts well with the salmon, providing a delicious balance.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds color and freshness to your plate.

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How to Perfect Panko Crusted Salmon

Achieving the perfect panko crusted salmon is easier than you think. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and herbs will enhance flavor and ensure better texture.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd Your Baking Dish: Leave space between fillets for air circulation, which helps them cook evenly.
• Watch Cooking Time Closely: Salmon can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on it as it approaches the 20-minute mark.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking helps redistribute juices.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different herbs or spices to your panko mixture for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Panko Crusted Salmon

Complement your panko crusted salmon with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings its own flavor profile to create a balanced meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting accompaniment.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies provides both nutrition and texture.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with fish.
4. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers a wonderful contrast to the crispy salmon.
5. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw adds crunch and tang, complementing the richness of the salmon.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Simple sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic is a nutritious and vibrant side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Panko Crusted Salmon, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the salmon before applying the panko mixture can lead to bland flavor. Always sprinkle salt and pepper directly on the fish for a flavorful base.

• Not preheating the oven: Cooking salmon in an unheated oven may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 415 degrees F for best results.

• Using stale panko: Old breadcrumbs can affect texture and flavor. Ensure your panko is fresh for that perfect crunch.

• Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many fillets close together can trap steam and prevent crisping. Space out your salmon pieces for even cooking.

• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the salmon immediately after baking can dry it out. Let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Panko Crusted Salmon

• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then foil for better protection.
• Frozen salmon can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating Panko Crusted Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place salmon on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, add a bit of oil, and warm each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about preparing Panko Crusted Salmon:

How do I make my Panko Crusted Salmon extra crispy?

To achieve an extra crispy topping, broil the salmon for the final few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw the salmon completely before applying the panko crust to ensure even cooking.

What should I serve with Panko Crusted Salmon?

Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Wild rice also complements this dish beautifully.

Why is my panko not sticking to the salmon?

If your panko isn’t adhering well, brush more Dijon mustard over the salmon before adding the panko mixture.

Is there a substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as an alternative, though they may not provide the same crunchy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Panko Crusted Salmon recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Enjoy every bite!