Print

Pecan Crusted Salmon

Pecan Crusted Salmon
Print Recipe

This Pecan Crusted Salmon recipe is a quick and easy dish featuring a crunchy, buttery pecan crust that complements tender, flaky salmon. With nutty richness from pecans and a subtle sweetness from honey or maple syrup, this healthy and wholesome meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on

Crust Mixture

  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of fresh herbs or spices (optional, e.g., thyme, rosemary, cayenne, smoked paprika)

Coating

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh lemon juice, for finishing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the crust sticks well. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Make the Pecan Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine finely chopped pecans, lemon zest, and a pinch of chosen herbs or spices if using. In a separate small bowl, mix Dijon mustard with honey or maple syrup until smooth.
  3. Coat the Salmon Fillets: Brush the mustard-honey mixture evenly over the top side of each salmon fillet. Press the chopped pecans firmly onto the coated side, creating a thick, even crust.
  4. Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place salmon fillets crust-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes until the pecans turn golden and crisp. Carefully flip the fillets and cook the other side for 3-5 minutes depending on thickness, or transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking thoroughly.
  5. Finish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked fillets for brightness. Let the salmon rest briefly to allow juices to settle and the crust to firm up before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature salmon by letting it sit out for 15 minutes before cooking for even heat distribution.
  • Chop pecans finely to help them adhere better and create a uniform crust.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give each fillet enough space to crisp up properly rather than steam.
  • Maintain medium heat to toast pecans without burning and cook salmon evenly.
  • Use a fish spatula to flip delicate salmon without breaking the crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan crusted salmon, salmon recipe, easy salmon dinner, healthy salmon, nutty crust salmon, gluten free salmon

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/pecan-crusted-salmon/