This Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Glaze is a quick, elegant dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor. The pecan crust provides a crunchy texture, while the honey-lemon glaze adds the perfect sweet-savory balance. It’s easy to make in just 30 minutes and perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the salmon:

• 4 salmon filets

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

• ½ cup Fisher Nuts Pecan Halves

• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves (chopped)

For the lemon glaze:

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the pecan crust: In a food processor, pulse the pecans, Panko breadcrumbs, and fresh parsley until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the salmon: Melt butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then dredge in the pecan mixture. Sear the salmon on both sides for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown. Place the skillet in the oven and bake the salmon for 10-12 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

4. Make the lemon glaze: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the glaze thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the salmon and serve immediately.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 395 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 28g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Cholesterol: 70mg

• Sodium: 550mg

• Potassium: 700mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 13g

• Vitamin A: 150 IU

• Vitamin C: 14mg

• Calcium: 40mg

• Iron: 2mg

The Pecan Crust: A Nutty Crunch

The pecan crust on the salmon is what sets this dish apart from traditional salmon recipes. Pecans, when finely chopped, create a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender salmon inside. Combined with Panko breadcrumbs, the pecans provide not only texture but also a subtle, rich flavor that complements the mildness of the salmon. Fresh parsley is added to the crust mixture to give it a burst of color and a fresh, herby note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

This crust adds an element of sophistication to the dish without complicating the preparation. The seasoning of salt and pepper ensures that the pecans’ flavor shines without overpowering the delicate salmon. The result is a light, crispy coating that brings a delightful crunch to every bite.

Cooking the Salmon: A Quick and Simple Method

Cooking the salmon involves two simple steps—searing and baking. First, the salmon is seasoned and dredged in the pecan mixture. The searing process helps to lock in the flavor and create a golden-brown crust on the salmon. By searing the salmon in a hot skillet with butter, you get the perfect crispy exterior while preserving the moistness of the fish. Searing for 1-2 minutes on each side allows the salmon to develop a flavorful crust without overcooking the interior.

Once seared, the salmon is transferred to the oven to finish cooking. At 400°F (200°C), the salmon bakes for about 10-12 minutes, allowing it to cook through and flake easily with a fork. This method is quick, ensuring the salmon stays moist while the pecan crust becomes perfectly crisp.

The Lemon Glaze: Sweet and Tangy Balance

The honey-lemon glaze is the perfect finishing touch for this dish. The glaze is a simple combination of honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and lemon juice. These ingredients come together to create a rich, sweet-savory sauce with a touch of heat from the ginger and a subtle tang from the lemon. The addition of cornstarch helps thicken the glaze, giving it a smooth, glossy texture that coats the salmon beautifully.

The glaze is cooked quickly in a small saucepan, simmering for just a few minutes until it thickens. It’s then drizzled over the salmon just before serving, infusing each bite with the perfect amount of sweetness and tang. The glaze not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also adds a touch of elegance to the dish, making it look as beautiful as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions: A Complete Meal

This Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Glaze is perfect for serving with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa works wonderfully to soak up the flavorful lemon glaze. You can even serve the salmon on top of the rice for a beautiful presentation.

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Pair the salmon with steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. The crispness of the vegetables complements the salmon, and they add a healthy element to the dish.

• Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette would pair nicely with the richness of the salmon.

• Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes make a hearty side dish, providing a comforting base that works perfectly with the salmon’s sweet and savory glaze.

Nutritional Information: A Healthy and Satisfying Dish

Each serving of Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Glaze provides 395 calories, making it a great choice for a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The dish offers 28 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying option, while the healthy fats from the salmon and pecans contribute 28 grams of fat, including 4 grams of saturated fat. This balance of protein and fat makes the dish both satisfying and nourishing.

The glaze adds 13 grams of sugar, primarily from honey and brown sugar, but the overall sugar content remains moderate for a sweet-savory dish. The salmon is also an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making this a nutrient-dense meal.

Conclusion: Quick, Elegant, and Flavorful

Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Glaze is the perfect combination of crispy, nutty, and tangy flavors. The pecan crust gives the salmon a satisfying crunch, while the honey-lemon glaze adds a delightful sweetness and tartness that makes every bite enjoyable. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. With its simple preparation and sophisticated flavors, this dish is a great way to enjoy a healthy, elegant meal in just 30 minutes.