Table of Contents
Introduction
Herb-Crusted Salmon is a delicious and nutritious dinner option that combines the rich flavors of fresh herbs with tender, flaky salmon. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that will keep you and your family satisfied throughout the evening. Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, this salmon dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your overall health. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for a family-friendly meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings, making it a versatile option for any palate.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | 4 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh dill, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh thyme, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Lemon wedges | for serving |
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- Make Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, dill, thyme, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
- Coat Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Bake Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Serve the herb-crusted salmon warm with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Iron | 8% DV |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
*DV = Daily Value
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Preparing Herb-Crusted Salmon in advance can be a game-changer for busy weeknights. This flavorful, nutritious dish can be prepped ahead of time and stored for convenient reheating later.
- Refrigeration: Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the salmon can be frozen in a single layer. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you need a quick and healthy meal, reheat the frozen salmon directly from the freezer in the oven or microwave.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 2 days | Reheat in the oven or microwave |
| Frozen | Up to 1 month | Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave |
Benefits
This Herb-Crusted Salmon is packed with essential nutrients:
- Protein: Salmon fillets provide a high-quality protein boost, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins: Fresh herbs and lemon zest are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
- Healthy Fats: Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function.
- Minerals: Salmon and herbs contain important minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are vital for heart health and muscle function.
Variations on the Classic Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe
The classic Herb-Crusted Salmon recipe is a great dinner choice. But there are many unique and creative ways to make it even better! Here are some simple ways to add variety and extra nutrition to this traditional dish:
- Spicy Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the herb mixture for a spicy variation.
- Garlic Butter Salmon: Replace olive oil with melted garlic butter for a rich, savory flavor.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon with Panko: Mix panko breadcrumbs with the herb mixture for a crunchy topping.
- Mix-ins for Texture: Add sliced cherry tomatoes, capers, or olives to make the salmon dish heartier and more fun. These mix-ins bring extra texture and flavor to every bite.
Here’s a quick guide to a few fun salmon variations:
| Salmon Variation | Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Herb-Crusted Salmon | Salmon fillets, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, olive oil | 20 minutes |
| Garlic Butter Salmon | Salmon fillets, fresh herbs, garlic butter | 20 minutes |
| Herb-Crusted Salmon with Panko | Salmon fillets, fresh herbs, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil | 20 minutes |
Why Kids Enjoy This Herb-Crusted Salmon ?
Herb-Crusted Salmon is a hit with kids for several reasons:
- Flavorful and Tasty: The fresh herb flavors make this dish delicious and appealing to kids.
- Fun to Eat: The tender, flaky salmon is easy for kids to eat.
- Nutritious and Filling: This salmon dish provides a balanced meal that keeps kids full and energized.
A Quick and Nutritious Meal for Busy Weeknights
This Herb-Crusted Salmon recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Added Bonus
This recipe is packed with protein and essential vitamins, making it a nutritious option that supports growth and energy for active kids. The combination of salmon, fresh herbs, and lemon provides a balanced meal that helps fuel their day.
Conclusion
Herb-Crusted Salmon is a delicious and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and offers a balanced and satisfying meal. With endless variations and the ability to customize it to your liking, this salmon dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Introducing nutritious options like these supports overall health and well-being. Consulting with a healthcare professional ensures that nutritional needs are met. Establishing healthy habits early promotes lifelong wellness and an appreciation for nutritious foods.
Related Recipe
If you enjoyed this Herb-Crusted Salmon, you might also like our Baked Lemon Herb Fish. It’s another flavorful and nutritious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners.