Description
This Pistachio-Crusted Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets topped with a flavorful crust of coarsely chopped pistachios and a zesty honey-lemon glaze. Perfectly baked to achieve a delicate texture and a satisfying crunch, this dish combines savory, tangy, and nutty elements in a quick 25-minute meal suitable for a refined weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces / 175 grams each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Glaze
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
Crust
- 1/3 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon evenly.
- Prepare the salmon: Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on a parchment-lined quarter sheet baking pan. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended.
- Apply the glaze: Spread about 3/4 of the honey-lemon-garlic mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, ensuring good coverage to infuse flavor during baking.
- Prepare the pistachio crust: Add the coarsely chopped pistachios to the remaining glaze mixture and stir until the pistachios are evenly coated.
- Top the salmon with pistachios: Spoon the pistachio mixture onto the glazed salmon, pressing lightly with the back of a spoon to adhere the crust firmly to the fish.
- Bake the salmon: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden and fragrant.
- Rest and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the pistachios are coarsely chopped to create a crunchy texture that complements the tender salmon.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tangy flavor contrast.
- For extra crispiness, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Salmon with skin on helps hold the fillet together during baking; you can remove the skin before serving if preferred.
- This recipe pairs nicely with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
