Ingredients
Salmon and Crust
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. sweet paprika
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 1/2 tsp. lemon zest (from 1 lemon - reserve juice for sauce)
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Sauce
- 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup minced shallots
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/3 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 425ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the salmon fillets skin side down. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, paprika, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- Make the Panko Crust: In a separate bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, fresh dill, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix thoroughly, ideally by hand, so the oil coats the breadcrumbs evenly. Evenly scatter this topping over the mustard-coated salmon, gently pressing it down so it adheres well.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the salmon until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork, approximately 13 to 16 minutes depending on the fillets’ thickness.
- Prepare the Lemon-Dill Sauce: While the salmon bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened. Pour in the chicken broth or white wine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Pour the creamy dill sauce onto a serving platter or individual plates. Arrange the baked salmon fillets on top. Optionally, serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Use skin-on salmon fillets for easier handling and to keep the fish moist during baking.
- To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese in the crust.
- If you prefer a tangier crust, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the panko mixture before applying the crust.
- Chicken broth can be replaced with dry white wine or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure the panko crust is pressed firmly on the salmon to prevent it from falling off during baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American