Description
This Easy Pistachio Crusted Salmon recipe offers a flavorful, crunchy twist on classic baked salmon, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Coated with a savory pistachio crust flavored with garlic and lemon zest, this dish is both elegant and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 pieces Salmon Fillets (Each fillet about 6 ounces)
Crust & Seasoning
- 1 cup Pistachios (Shelled and finely chopped, unsalted)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 piece Lemon Zest (Zest of one lemon, finely grated)
- 1 pinch Salt (To taste)
- 1 pinch Black Pepper (Freshly ground, to taste)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the salmon.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the salmon from sticking and to ease cleanup.
- Dry Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing the pistachio crust to adhere better.
- Make Pistachio Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pistachios, olive oil, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a cohesive crust mixture.
- Apply Crust: Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the pistachio mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Bake Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is lightly golden.
- Rest: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender fish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salmon just before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh pistachios for the best texture and flavor in the crust.
- If you prefer, you can substitute garlic powder with freshly minced garlic, but adjust quantity to taste.
- Make sure not to overbake the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- For a nut-free alternative, try using panko breadcrumbs seasoned similarly.
