Crispy Parmesan Herb Salmon Bake
Indulge in this Crispy Parmesan Herb Salmon Bake, where flaky salmon fillets are smothered in a creamy, zesty mayonnaise blend enriched with grated Parmesan and a hint of spice. Finished with a crunchy layer of buttery cracker crumbs, this dish not only delights the palate but also packs a powerful protein punch, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious dinner. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family will love!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (none)
Ground Red Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Salmon Fillets
4 (about 6 oz each)
Lemon
1 (juiced)
Butter Flavored Crackers
10 (crushed (like Ritz))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and ground red pepper. Mix well and taste; feel free to add more red pepper if you prefer additional heat.
3
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking pan, skin-side down if applicable. Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over each fillet for brightness and flavor.
4
Using a spatula, evenly spread the mayonnaise mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
5
Sprinkle the crushed butter-flavored crackers over the mayonnaise layer, pressing them gently to adhere.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The topping should be golden and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Parmesan Herb Salmon Bake?
It is a nutritious dish featuring flaky salmon fillets coated in a creamy mayonnaise and Parmesan blend, topped with crunchy butter-flavored cracker crumbs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius.
How long does the salmon need to bake?
The salmon should bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
What are the main ingredients for the creamy coating?
The coating is made from a mixture of 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and ground red pepper to taste.
Can I adjust the heat level of this dish?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of ground red pepper in the mayonnaise mixture to suit your spice preference.
Should I use salmon with the skin on?
You can use salmon with skin; if you do, place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking pan.
What type of crackers are recommended for the topping?
Butter-flavored crackers, such as Ritz crackers, are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the cracker topping has become golden and crispy.
When do I add the lemon juice?
Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over each fillet before you spread the mayonnaise mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for a high-protein diet?
Yes, this dish is specifically categorized as a high-protein meal.
What side dishes go well with this salmon?
This recipe pairs excellently with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
How should the baking pan be prepared for easy cleanup?
Line your baking pan with aluminum foil before placing the salmon to make cleanup much easier.
How much mayonnaise is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of mayonnaise.
What is the required amount of Parmesan cheese?
You will need 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for the mixture.
What is the approximate size of each salmon fillet?
The recipe recommends 4 salmon fillets that are about 6 ounces each.
How many crackers are needed for the topping?
You should use 10 butter-flavored crackers for the recipe.
What is the best way to apply the mayonnaise mixture?
Use a spatula to evenly spread the mixture over the top of each salmon fillet.
What flavor benefit does the lemon provide?
The fresh lemon juice provides brightness and enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.
Can I use a different kind of fish for this recipe?
While intended for salmon, this preparation would likely work well with other firm fish fillets.
How should the crackers be prepared?
The crackers should be crushed before they are sprinkled over the mayonnaise layer.
What are some common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include salmon, baked salmon, parmesan crusted, high protein, and easy dinner.
How much ground red pepper is used?
The recipe starts with 1/8 teaspoon of ground red pepper, which can be adjusted to taste.
Why is the mayonnaise mixture important?
The mayonnaise mixture adds zest, keeps the salmon moist, and acts as an adhesive for the cracker crumbs.
What should the final appearance of the topping be?
The cracker topping should be golden brown and have a crispy texture.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is described as a meal that the whole family will love due to its familiar, delicious flavors.
Can I substitute lemon with another citrus?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute if you prefer a different citrus profile.
Should the Parmesan cheese be grated or shredded?
The recipe specifically calls for grated Parmesan cheese to ensure it mixes well with the mayonnaise.
How is the texture of the salmon described?
The cooked salmon is described as flaky and tender.
How do I ensure the cracker crumbs stay on the fish?
After sprinkling the crushed crackers, press them gently into the mayonnaise layer to help them adhere.