This Walnut Crusted Salmon is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The salmon is baked to perfection with a rosemary maple mustard sauce, topped with a crunchy walnut crust that adds a nutty richness. The smoky paprika and a hint of cayenne elevate the flavor profile, while the fresh lemon zest and juice give it a refreshing, bright finish. Easy to make and ready in just 27 minutes, this recipe is a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying way to enjoy fish.
Ingredients
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1 pound salmon fillet
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1/3 cup chopped unsalted walnuts
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon maple syrup
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1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
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1/2 teaspoon grated or minced garlic
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1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
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2 teaspoons lemon juice
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1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray.
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Place the salmon fillet(s) onto the prepared baking sheet, skin side down.
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In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
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Spread the mustard mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet.
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Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top of the salmon and gently press them down so they stick.
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Bake the salmon for 8-12 minutes, or until the thickest part flakes easily with a fork.
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Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 12 minutes
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Total time: 27 minutes
Variations
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Herb Swap: Instead of rosemary, try using thyme or parsley for a different flavor.
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Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of maple syrup, depending on your preference.
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Nut Variations: If you don’t have walnuts, feel free to use pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for the crust.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also gently reheat in a microwave for about 1-2 minutes, but the crust may lose some of its crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works well for this recipe. Just be sure to fully thaw it before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe with skin-on salmon?
Yes, you can use skin-on salmon. The skin will crisp up nicely, and you can simply remove it after cooking if you prefer.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon is done when the thickest part flakes easily with a fork. It should also be opaque in color. If you prefer your salmon slightly less cooked, aim for an internal temperature of 120-125°F (49-52°C).
Can I make the walnut crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the walnut crust mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just apply it to the salmon before baking.
What can I serve with walnut crusted salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, asparagus, rice, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, you can grill the salmon. Simply prepare the salmon with the same topping and cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through.
How do I make the salmon crust crispier?
For a crispier crust, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Can I use salmon fillets instead of a whole salmon?
Yes, individual salmon fillets can be used in place of a whole salmon. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
What’s a good substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will slightly change.
Can I use pre-ground rosemary?
Fresh rosemary gives the best flavor, but if you only have dried rosemary, you can use it. Just use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh rosemary to get a similar flavor.
Conclusion
Walnut Crusted Salmon is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon, the crunch of walnuts, and the delightful sweetness of maple syrup. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. The balance of savory, sweet, and smoky makes it a crowd-pleaser that can easily become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Walnut Crusted Salmon
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Walnut Crusted Salmon is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring a savory rosemary maple mustard sauce, topped with crunchy walnuts, and baked to perfection. The smoky paprika and lemon zest add a unique depth of flavor to the tender salmon, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious!
Ingredients
1 pound salmon fillet
⅓ cup chopped unsalted walnuts
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
½ teaspoon grated or minced garlic
½ teaspoon lemon zest
2 teaspoons lemon juice
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray. Place the salmon fillet(s) onto the prepared baking sheet, skin side down.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Coat the Salmon:
Spread the mustard mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top and gently press them down so they stick.
Bake:
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes or until the thickest part of the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Serve:
Serve the salmon with lemon wedges, if desired.
Notes
Cooking Time: The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon. If your fillet is thicker, it may need a bit more time in the oven.
Nut-Free Version: If you’re looking for a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the walnut crusted salmon with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
