Parmesan Crusted Salmon Caesar Salad

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon Caesar Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavor of oven-baked salmon with the classic tang of Caesar salad. The salmon is coated in a golden, crispy Parmesan crust, served over crisp romaine lettuce, and tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes a traditional Caesar salad to the next level by adding a savory, cheesy crusted salmon filet. It’s hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, yet light and fresh, perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s packed with protein, easy to make, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, the crispy texture of the Parmesan crust adds a gourmet touch with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Dijon mustard
• Olive oil
• Romaine lettuce
• Caesar dressing
• Croutons
• Shaved Parmesan cheese
• Lemon wedges (optional)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush each salmon fillet with Dijon mustard on the top side.
4. Press the mustard-coated side of the salmon into the Parmesan mixture to coat thoroughly.
5. Place the salmon crust-side up on the baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, chop the romaine lettuce and toss it with Caesar dressing in a large bowl.
8. Divide the salad onto plates, top with croutons and shaved Parmesan.
9. Place a Parmesan-crusted salmon fillet on each salad and serve with a lemon wedge if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap salmon for chicken breasts or shrimp for a different protein twist.
• Use kale or mixed greens instead of romaine for added nutrients.
• Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, or red onion for more color and flavor.
• Spice up the crust with crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• Make it low-carb by omitting the croutons or using keto-friendly bread.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat the salmon, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Toss fresh lettuce and dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it’s done.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking and pat it dry to help the crust stick better.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

You can use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a milder flavor and similar adhesion.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the crust and gluten-free croutons.

Can I air fry the salmon instead of baking?

Yes, air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the salmon is cooked through.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives and check your Caesar dressing for dairy-free ingredients.

What’s the best type of Parmesan for the crust?

Finely grated Parmesan works best as it sticks well and crisps up nicely.

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes, but place the skin side down while baking and don’t crust the skin side.

How do I keep the crust from falling off?

Ensure the salmon is dry before adding the mustard and press the crust firmly into the fillet.

What dressing should I use?

A classic Caesar dressing works best, but you can use a lighter yogurt-based version or make your own.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon Caesar Salad is a quick, flavorful meal that brings together the elegance of a restaurant dish with the ease of home cooking. It’s perfect for weeknights, lunch gatherings, or any time you want a hearty salad with a twist. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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