Name: Herb Crusted Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Lemon wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with fresh herb flavor
Crispy, flavorful crust with tender salmon
Rich in protein and heart-healthy omega-3s
Perfect for both casual meals and entertaining
Pairs well with a variety of side dishes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, chives, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired level of doneness.
For a crispier crust, broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully.
Remove from the oven and allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the herb mixture.
Substitute cilantro and parsley for a different flavor profile.
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Use lime zest instead of lemon zest.
Add crushed pistachios or almonds to the crust for extra texture.
Cook the salmon in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the salmon in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the fish.

Leftover salmon can also be enjoyed cold in salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, though the herb crust may lose some of its crispness after thawing.

FAQs

What type of salmon works best for this recipe?

Atlantic, sockeye, coho, and king salmon all work well. Choose fresh, high-quality fillets whenever possible.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs since their flavor is more concentrated.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.

Can I make Herb Crusted Salmon without breadcrumbs?

Yes. Finely chopped nuts or additional herbs can be used as a breadcrumb substitute.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes. Salmon is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious meal choice.

Can I cook this salmon in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

What side dishes pair well with Herb Crusted Salmon?

Roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, and fresh salads all complement this dish beautifully.

Can I prepare the herb mixture ahead of time?

Yes. The herb mixture can be prepared several hours in advance and refrigerated until needed.

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes. Skin-on salmon works very well and helps keep the fish moist during cooking.

What sauces go well with Herb Crusted Salmon?

Lemon butter sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, dill sauce, or a simple squeeze of fresh lemon are excellent choices.

Conclusion

Herb Crusted Salmon is a simple yet impressive dish that combines fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus with tender, flaky salmon. The crisp, flavorful crust enhances the natural richness of the fish, creating a meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy salmon.

Herb Crusted Salmon

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Herb Crusted Salmon is a flavorful and elegant seafood dish featuring tender salmon fillets topped with a crisp mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs, and lemon zest. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, chives, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
For a crispier crust, broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes while watching carefully.
Remove from the oven and allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the herb mixture for additional flavor.
Substitute cilantro and parsley for a different herb profile.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Use lime zest instead of lemon zest for a citrus variation.
Add crushed pistachios or almonds to the crust for texture.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes if preferred.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy leftovers cold in salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
Freeze for up to 2 months, though the crust may soften slightly.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 34 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg