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There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-cooked piece of salmon especially when it’s coated in a golden, nutty crust. Imagine the aroma as pecans toast gently in the oven, mingling with the richness of butter and the subtle sweetness of honey. This Pecan-Crusted Salmon is more than just a recipe; it’s a dining experience that makes your kitchen smell irresistible and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish effortlessly delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Recipe
You’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together (just 20–25 minutes from start to finish), while still offering complex layers of flavor:
- The pecan crust adds a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth.
- The honey-Dijon sauce provides a sweet and tangy balance to the buttery salmon.
- Perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Pecan-Crusted Salmon You’ll Want to Make Every Week
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Nutty, crunchy pecan-crusted salmon baked with a sweet honey-Dijon glaze perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 5 teaspoons honey
- ½ cup fresh bread crumbs
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 3 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 6 (4 ounce) fillets salmon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard, butter, and honey.
3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, pecans, and parsley.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Place on a lightly greased baking sheet.
6. Brush tops with mustard-honey mixture.
7. Cover with breadcrumb-pecan mixture.
8. Bake for 10 minutes per inch of thickness until salmon flakes easily.
9. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Use fresh pecans for best flavor.
Avoid overcooking as salmon continues to cook after removal.
Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or quinoa salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Pecan-Crusted Salmon
Below is your complete list of exact measurements for the most flavorful results:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dijon mustard | 3 tablespoons |
| Butter, melted | 3 tablespoons |
| Honey | 5 teaspoons |
| Fresh bread crumbs | ½ cup |
| Finely chopped pecans | ½ cup |
| Chopped fresh parsley | 3 teaspoons |
| Salmon fillets (4 oz each) | 6 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Lemon wedges | 6 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Mustard-Honey Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk Dijon mustard, melted butter, and honey until smooth.
- This will act as your glue for the pecan crumb topping.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Crust
- Combine bread crumbs, chopped pecans, and fresh parsley in a separate bowl.
- Stir until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Season and Coat Your Salmon
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over each salmon fillet.
- Place fillets on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Brush the top of each fillet with your mustard-honey mixture.
- Cover each fillet with your bread-crumb-pecan mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for roughly 10 minutes per inch of thickness at the thickest part of the salmon.
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve with Fresh Lemon
- Garnish each fillet with a wedge of lemon for a burst of freshness right before serving.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
- Fresh Pecans: Use fresh, unsalted pecans for maximum flavor without excess sodium.
- Bread Crumbs: Panko crumbs add an especially crisp texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon continues to cook after removing from the oven. If unsure, pull it out slightly early.
- Variations: Try maple syrup instead of honey for a New England-inspired twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make pecan-crusted salmon ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the topping and mustard-honey mixture a day ahead. Store separately and assemble just before baking.
Q: What can I serve with pecan-crusted salmon?
It pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light quinoa salad.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely. Just thaw fully, pat dry, and proceed with the recipe.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
For a low-carb version, replace bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Conclusion
You now have a foolproof recipe for Pecan-Crusted Salmon that blends elegance with ease. From the crunchy pecan topping to the tender, flaky salmon beneath, each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight and impressive enough for guests. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a dish that might just become your signature recipe.