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Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter

crispy parmesan-crusted salmon - featured image

This crispy parmesan-crusted salmon with lemon butter is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. The parmesan crust gets shatteringly crisp while the lemon butter keeps the salmon perfectly moist inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Let salmon fillets sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Pat them very dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, combine finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest. Mix with a fork.
  3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir and set aside.
  4. Press the Crust onto the Salmon: Press the Parmesan-panko mixture firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet.
  5. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets crust-side down in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving, until the crust is golden and crispy.
  6. Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the salmon fillets. Pour the lemon butter mixture into the pan around the salmon. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Baste and Serve: In the last minute, spoon lemon butter from the pan over the salmon. Remove from pan, let rest 1-2 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat the salmon very dry for a good sear. Let salmon come to room temperature before cooking. Use medium-high heat, not high heat. Do not move the fish while searing. Use a fish spatula for flipping. Grate your own Parmesan for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy parmesan crusted salmon, lemon butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, quick salmon