The golden-brown crust on the salmon adds a delightful crunch to each bite, perfectly complementing the tender and flaky fish. The rich lemon cream sauce drizzled on top takes this dish to the next level with its tangy, creamy finish that will leave you craving more. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that makes every bite a memorable experience. Whether you’re serving this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce is sure to impress. The crispy coating, combined with the zesty sauce, creates a balance of indulgence and freshness that’s simply irresistible. Paired with a side of vegetables or a simple salad, this dish is an elegant yet easy choice for any meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients
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4 salmon fillets
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp melted butter
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 lemon, sliced into wedges
For the Lemon Cream Sauce
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a small bowl, combine the parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
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Brush each salmon fillet with melted butter and press the breadcrumb mixture onto the fillets to coat them evenly.
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Arrange the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
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While the salmon bakes, prepare the lemon cream sauce. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the lemon cream sauce over the fillets and garnish with lemon wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce: A Perfectly Balanced Delight
Salmon has long been revered as a premium source of protein, healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. Whether you’re looking to boost your heart health, improve cognitive function, or simply indulge in a delicious and nutritious meal, baked salmon is a fantastic choice. One of the best ways to prepare this remarkable fish is with a crunchy, golden parmesan crust that locks in flavor and moisture, while a tangy lemon cream sauce provides a luxurious finishing touch.
This baked parmesan crusted salmon with lemon cream sauce recipe is not only mouthwateringly delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s an ideal dish for anyone who loves seafood but wants something that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes without compromising on flavor or quality. With this recipe, you’re bringing together all the right flavors to create an elegant yet approachable meal that will impress family, friends, or guests alike.
Why Salmon is a Healthy Choice
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance. It’s also rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, lower cholesterol levels, and promote healthy brain function. Notably, the omega-3s found in salmon are essential fats that our body cannot produce on its own, which is why it’s crucial to include them in your diet.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, salmon is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, selenium, and B vitamins like B12, which contribute to strong bones, immune function, and energy production. Plus, it’s an incredibly versatile fish, making it a staple in many different cuisines worldwide.
The Power of Parmesan and Panko Crust
What makes this recipe stand out is the savory, crispy parmesan and panko crust that coats the salmon fillets. The combination of parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the fish. The parmesan contributes a sharp, salty richness, while the panko breadcrumbs give a satisfying crunch.
The crust serves several purposes: it enhances the fish’s taste, adds visual appeal, and most importantly, locks in moisture to keep the salmon tender while offering that crispy exterior we all love. The buttery finish, combined with the crunch, gives every bite of salmon a gourmet touch. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, the ease of creating this crispy crust will make you feel like a professional chef.
Lemon Cream Sauce: The Perfect Flavor Boost
While the crispy parmesan crust is the star of this dish, the lemon cream sauce is what elevates it to a whole new level. The sauce is a simple yet indulgent blend of heavy cream, butter, and lemon juice, finished with a pinch of garlic powder for depth of flavor. This sauce adds a rich, tangy, and creamy element to the dish, balancing the richness of the salmon and the crispiness of the crust.
The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon cream sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory parmesan crust, making it a perfect pairing with the salmon. Lemon is a classic ingredient used in seafood dishes, and here, it cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a well-balanced taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While this recipe may feel indulgent, it’s surprisingly healthy, especially when compared to many other creamy or fried dishes. Thanks to the use of salmon, you’re getting a lean protein that’s full of heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients. Additionally, by baking the salmon rather than frying it, you’re keeping it light and avoiding unnecessary oils.
The creamy lemon sauce, made with just a bit of butter and heavy cream, is also not as heavy as it might seem. You can even tweak the recipe by using lighter ingredients, such as low-fat cream or even Greek yogurt, to reduce calories and fat content without sacrificing the creamy texture and flavor.
Adding a healthy side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad will complete this meal, giving you a wholesome, balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Make This Recipe Your Own
One of the best aspects of the baked parmesan crusted salmon with lemon cream sauce is how adaptable it is. While the recipe calls for classic ingredients, there’s room for creativity and personalization. For instance, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the crust mixture to infuse more flavor. If you prefer a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick, bringing out a whole new dimension to the dish.
Feel free to experiment with different types of fish, such as cod, halibut, or tilapia, in place of the salmon. Just keep in mind that each fish may require slightly different cooking times. If you’re looking to make the sauce lighter, swapping heavy cream with half-and-half or using coconut milk could provide a different twist, while still keeping it creamy and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This baked parmesan crusted salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You could serve it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a more hearty meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted sweet potatoes. The sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the tangy lemon cream sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
If you’re preparing this dish for a special occasion, why not serve it with a glass of crisp white wine? Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay are excellent pairings, as their acidity and light body will enhance the flavors of the salmon and lemon cream sauce.
A Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this baked parmesan crusted salmon with lemon cream sauce is sure to impress. It’s sophisticated enough for entertaining, yet simple enough for everyday meals. The crispy salmon, paired with the creamy, tangy sauce, creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Conclusion
Baked parmesan crusted salmon with lemon cream sauce is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. It combines the richness of salmon with the delightful crunch of a parmesan crust and the zesty brightness of lemon cream sauce. This easy-to-make dish is an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties. By serving it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, you can create a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will love.