Name: Herb-Crusted Salmon Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon chopped dill or thyme; Salt and black pepper (to taste); 4 cups mixed greens; ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ½ cucumber (sliced); ¼ red onion (thinly sliced); Optional: avocado slices; 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Experience the perfect harmony of flaky, tender salmon topped with a crunchy, aromatic herb crust, paired with a refreshing, vibrant salad. This dish brings together rich flavors and light textures, making it an ideal choice whether you want a satisfying lunch or an elegant dinner.

Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the golden crust and the crisp, colorful salad, all brightened with a zesty lemon dressing. Simple to prepare yet impressive on the plate, this salad is designed to please both your palate and your eyes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines healthy salmon rich in omega-3 with a fresh, nutritious salad.
Herb crust adds texture and vibrant flavors without heavy breading.
Bright lemon dressing enhances taste while keeping it light and refreshing.

Ingredients

Salmon fillets: Two fresh, skin-on salmon fillets provide a tender, protein-rich base for the herb crust.
Olive oil: Used for brushing salmon and dressing; adds smooth richness and helps crust adhere.
Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that toast to a light, crispy crust on the salmon.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty depth to the crust, enhancing its flavor complexity.
Garlic powder: Adds an earthy, pungent undertone that complements the fish beautifully.
Lemon zest: Gives a fresh, bright citrus aroma and subtle zing to the crust.
Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley brings vibrant color and a mild herbal note to the coating.
Chopped dill or thyme: These herbs contribute unique fragrant and slightly tangy flavors.
Salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the components perfectly.
Mixed greens: A crisp and colorful bed of various leafy greens adds freshness and texture.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved sweet and juicy tomatoes provide bursts of flavor and color contrast.
Cucumber slices: Cool and crunchy cucumber balances the salad with refreshing mildness.
Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds subtle sharpness and crunch.
Optional avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and smooth texture if desired.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens and lifts the dressing flavor.
Dijon mustard: Adds mild heat and tang to the lemon dressing.
Honey: Balances acidity with gentle sweetness in the dressing.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Salmon: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for a perfectly baked salmon. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish before adding the herb crust.
Create the Herb Crust Mixture: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, lemon zest, parsley, dill (or thyme), salt, and pepper. This mixture adds a crunchy texture and aromatic herbal notes that complement the salmon’s richness.
Apply the Herb Crust to Salmon: Press the breadcrumb mixture gently but firmly onto the top surface of each salmon fillet. This coating will crisp up beautifully during baking, locking in moisture and flavor.
Bake the Salmon Fillets: Place the crusted salmon on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the herb crust turns golden brown. For extra color and crunch, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Prepare the Fresh Salad: While the salmon bakes, assemble the salad by tossing mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and optional avocado slices in a large bowl. This combination offers freshness and varying textures to accompany the rich salmon.
Whisk the Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well to emulsify for a bright, tangy dressing that enhances the salad without overpowering the salmon.
Toss Salad and Assemble the Dish: Lightly dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp, then arrange on plates and top each portion with a warm herb-crusted salmon fillet. This assembly ensures each bite delivers balanced flavors and textures.
Serve Immediately with Lemon Wedges: Present the dish with extra lemon wedges on the side to add extra zest per personal preference. Serving immediately maintains the salmon’s perfect texture and the salad’s freshness.

You Must Know

For a more intense herb flavor, finely chop fresh herbs rather than using dried or powdered.
Avoid overdressing the salad to preserve freshness and crunch.
Using skin-on salmon helps keep the fillets moist during baking.
Salmon thickness affects baking time; adjust accordingly to prevent drying out.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salmon and salad components separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate the salmon for up to 2 days and keep the salad undressed to prevent wilting. Reheat salmon gently to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This herb-crusted salmon salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of roasted baby potatoes for a heartier meal. A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrusy and herbal flavors elegantly.

Professional Tips

For a richer crust, incorporate finely chopped basil and chives into the herb mix.
To save time, pan-sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side and finish in the oven.
Add toasted almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?: Yes, just be sure to thaw completely and pat dry before preparing to ensure a crisp herb crust.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?: Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work, but panko provides the best light and crunchy texture.
Can I make the lemon dressing in advance?: Yes, prepare the dressing up to two days ahead and keep refrigerated. Shake or whisk before use.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely. Keep the salmon separate from the salad until serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I bake all the fillets at once?: Yes, arrange them evenly spaced on the baking tray to ensure even cooking and crisping.
How can I make the crust extra crispy?: Finish the salmon under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for a golden, crunchy top.
What herbs work best in the crust?: Parsley, dill, thyme, basil, and chives all complement salmon wonderfully. Feel free to combine according to your taste.