Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy yet flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This walnut-crusted salmon recipe is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and the satisfying crunch of the walnut crust elevates this simple dish to something truly special. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this homemade cooking masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Walnut Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This creates the delicious and crunchy crust for your salmon.
Step 2: Coat the Salmon
Gently pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the crust adhere better. Spread the walnut mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Walnut Crusted Salmon:
- Don't overbake: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use fresh herbs instead of dried.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the walnut crust mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Variations:
- Add some zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the walnut crust for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the crust for a spicy kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, dill, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe offers a fantastic source of healthy fats from the salmon and walnuts, along with a good amount of protein. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that are both delicious and nutritious, making it a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!