Herb Crusted Salmon with Tangy Sauce

Herb Crusted Salmon is a flavourful and elegant dish that combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of herbs and a tangy sauce. The salmon is coated with a crunchy herb crust and baked to perfection, resulting in tender, flaky fish with a delightful herb-infused flavour. Paired with a tangy sauce, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal at home. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious Herb Crusted Salmon.

Ingredients

To make Herb Crusted Salmon, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare Herb Crusted Salmon:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare Herb Crust: In a small bowl, combine chopped parsley, dill, chives, minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a thick herb crust paste.

3. Prepare Salmon: Pat dry the salmon fillets with paper towels. If using skin-on salmon, place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Season the salmon fillets lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Apply Herb Crust: Spread the herb crust mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Bake Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Make Tangy Sauce: While the salmon is baking, prepare the tangy sauce (see recipe below).

7. Serve: Remove the herb crusted salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges and drizzled with tangy sauce.

Tangy Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

2. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice if desired.

Tips for Making Herb Crusted Salmon

• Choosing Salmon: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavour and texture. You can use skin-on or skinless salmon based on your preference.

• Herb Variations: Feel free to adjust the herbs based on availability and personal taste. Basil, thyme, or cilantro can also be great additions or substitutions.

• Baking Time: Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Thicker fillets may require additional cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Herb Crusted Salmon pairs well with:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

• Quinoa or Rice: Enjoy with a bed of fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice for a complete meal.

• Green Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Conclusion

Herb Crusted Salmon is a delicious and elegant dish that's easy to prepare yet impressive to serve. With its crunchy herb crust and tangy sauce, it's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a special dinner or a casual weekday meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavours of fresh herbs and tender salmon in every bite of this delightful dish.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? While fresh herbs provide the best flavour, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through? Salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill the Herb Crusted Salmon instead of baking? Yes, you can grill the salmon over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Is it necessary to remove the skin from the salmon fillets? No, you can leave the skin on the salmon fillets if you prefer. Ensure the skin is cleaned and pat dry before applying the herb crust.

Can I prepare the herb crust in advance? Yes, you can prepare the herb crust mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before applying it to the salmon fillets.

Delight your taste buds with Herb Crusted Salmon, a dish that combines fresh herbs, tender salmon, and a tangy sauce for a memorable dining experience.