If you’re looking for a simple, quick, and impressive second course, this Crispy Baked Salmon is just perfect. It’s a recipe I first tasted at a communion: it was so good that I immediately asked how it was made. Since then, it has become one of my ‘dinner saver’ dishes, the one I prepare when I have little time but still want to serve something special and well-prepared.
The beauty of this dish is that it requires very few ingredients, all common, and it cooks in just 10-12 minutes. The salmon remains soft and juicy inside, while the surface transforms into a slightly crispy and fragrant crust, thanks to the mix of breadcrumbs, parmesan, parsley, thyme, and a touch of finely chopped garlic.
To achieve the best texture, the trick is to leave the salmon skin underneath: in the oven, it becomes a natural base that protects the fish from direct heat and keeps it moist.
Salmon is also rich in Omega-3, high-quality proteins, and B vitamins: perfect for a light yet complete meal that appeals to both adults and children. This dish is also very popular with kids because it looks good and, most importantly, has no bones.
Whether it’s for a dinner with friends, a Sunday lunch, or an evening when you want something tasty without spending hours at the stove, this crispy baked salmon is always the right choice. A recipe that feels like it comes from a friend or a mom: simple, reliable, and super tasty.
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Medium
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 6 people
- Cooking methods: Oven, Electric Oven, Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All Seasons
Ingredients
- 1 salmon fillet (whole, loin)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- salt
- pepper
- thyme
- parsley
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 drizzle extra virgin olive oil
Tools
- 1 Knife
- 1 Baking Dish
Preparation
In the first photo, you can see the deep plate where I combined all the breading ingredients: breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, thyme, and finely chopped garlic.
These are simple ingredients, but together they create a fragrant and tasty crust. Just mix them well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.
In the second photograph, you can see the whole salmon fillet, which I cut with a kitchen knife into regular pieces. I kept the skin underneath, because in the oven it helps to keep the fish tender.
I passed each piece of salmon in the breading, pressing lightly so that it adheres well to the flesh.
Then I placed the pieces on the baking tray lined with parchment paper, placing the skin directly on the tray and keeping the slices close to each other.
In the last photo, you can see the baking tray ready for the oven: all the salmon pieces are well-distributed and coated with breading. I added a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on the surface to promote browning.
I baked it in a preheated oven at 428°F for about 10-12 minutes.
Every oven is different, so it’s advisable to check the cooking: the outside should be crispy, while the inside should remain soft and juicy. It’s important not to exceed 12 minutes to avoid drying it out.
⭐ Final Notes and Tips
The beauty of this crispy baked salmon is that it is truly suited for a thousand occasions: you can serve it hot straight from the oven, perhaps accompanied by a simple fresh salad, steamed potatoes, or a side of grilled vegetables. It’s a light yet complete dish, ideal for a quick family dinner or when you have guests and want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you like pairing ideas, this salmon goes wonderfully with a dry white wine, like a Vermentino or Pinot Grigio: delicate aromas that don’t overpower the taste of the fish and enhance the crust.
A final tip: always prepare a few extra pieces, because this salmon literally flies off the plate! And if there’s any left, the next day it is excellent at room temperature, perfect to add to a salad or take to work.
If you liked the recipe or have any questions, feel free to comment here or on social media Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and X
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I prepare the crispy salmon in advance?
Yes. You can prepare the pieces already breaded and keep them in the fridge for 2-3 hours, covered with cling film. At serving time, just add a drizzle of oil and bake. The result remains crispy and fragrant.
Can it also be cooked in an air fryer?
Of course! Place the salmon pieces skin side down, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 392°F for 8-9 minutes. The time may vary depending on the power of the appliance.
