Easy Crunchy Panko Salmon Recipe

Looking for a salmon recipe that’s both simple and impressive? This panko-crusted salmon delivers tender, flaky fish with a perfectly crisp topping, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you're hosting guests or craving a weeknight dinner upgrade, this dish pairs beautifully with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a citrusy grain bowl.

Here’s how to make this flavorful, protein-rich entrée that’s packed with heart-healthy omega-3s.

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup panko (Japanese-style dried bread flakes)

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons good olive oil

• Four 6- to 8-ounce salmon fillets, skin on

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F.

• In a small bowl, combine the panko, parsley, lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Drizzle with the olive oil and stir until evenly coated. Set aside.

• Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a cutting board or plate. Generously brush the tops with Dijon mustard, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

• Press the panko mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated tops of each fillet. The mustard helps the crumbs adhere and adds a tangy depth of flavor.

• In a large, ovenproof skillet (like a cast-iron pan), heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 3 to 4 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up.

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 5 to 7 minutes, until the salmon is nearly cooked through and the panko topping is golden and crisp.

• Remove the pan from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and let the salmon rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

• Serve warm or at room temperature with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Nutrition Notes

This dish is rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support brain and heart health. The panko adds a satisfying crunch without deep-frying, and the Dijon mustard lends a subtle tang that balances the richness of the fish. For a lower-sodium version, opt for low-sodium mustard and use a lighter hand with the salt.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your panko-crusted salmon with:

• Steamed asparagus or green beans

• Wild rice or quinoa with herbs

• A cucumber-dill yogurt sauce

• A glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with citrus

The Takeaway

This panko-crusted salmon is a foolproof way to elevate a healthy dinner with texture and flavor. Quick, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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