Lemon almond crusted salmon is a bright, flavorful seafood dish that combines tender salmon fillets with a crisp almond and panko topping. This easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of citrus freshness and nutty crunch, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lemon almond crusted salmon is simple to prepare yet impressive on the plate. The crunchy almond coating adds texture without overpowering the natural richness of the salmon. It’s family-friendly, made with wholesome ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a reliable go-to for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup almonds, chopped or crushed
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets evenly with salt and pepper, then brush lightly with olive oil on all sides.
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped almonds, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
- Press each salmon fillet firmly into the almond mixture, coating the top and sides well.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil.
- Cook the salmon for about 5 minutes per side, until the crust is golden and the salmon is fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before serving this lemon almond crusted salmon.
Tips & Tricks
- Use finely chopped almonds for a more even crust.
- If the crust browns too quickly, reduce heat slightly and cover the pan briefly.
- A nonstick or well-seasoned skillet helps prevent sticking.
- You can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes if preferred.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-optional (use gluten-free panko), halal-friendly
Notes
Serve with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or steamed rice. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the citrus flavor even more.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 24g
FAQ
Can I use almond flour instead of chopped almonds?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less crunchy.
Is this recipe suitable for baking?
Absolutely. Bake uncovered until the crust is golden and salmon flakes easily.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can coat the salmon a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What type of salmon works best?
Fresh Atlantic or wild-caught salmon both work well.
How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
The flesh should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Storage
Store leftover lemon almond crusted salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve the crust. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Similar Recipes
Lemon Almond Crusted Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets 6–8 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup almonds chopped or crushed
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets evenly with salt and pepper, then brush lightly with olive oil on all sides.
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped almonds, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
- Press each salmon fillet firmly into the almond mixture, coating the top and sides well.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil.
- Cook the salmon for about 5 minutes per side, until the crust is golden and the salmon is fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before serving this lemon almond crusted salmon.
Notes
Conclusion
This lemon almond crusted salmon is a flavorful, elegant dish that proves healthy cooking can still feel indulgent. With its crisp coating and fresh citrus notes, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again with confidence.