If you’re looking for a light yet flavorful seafood dish, Dill and Lemon Crusted Salmon is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender, flaky salmon with a bright citrus aroma and the fresh herbal notes of dill, finished with a golden, crispy crust. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a healthy weeknight meal.
Rich in omega-3s and packed with fresh flavors, this salmon dish proves that healthy food can be incredibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💚
- Crispy crust with a tender center
- Fresh lemon and dill flavor that enhances the salmon
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for healthy, low-carb meals
Ingredients 🧾
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 170–200 g / 6–7 oz each), skin on or off
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Dill & Lemon Crust
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
Instructions 👨🍳
1️⃣ Prepare the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place on a lined baking tray.
2️⃣ Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, lemon zest, dill, garlic, Parmesan (if using), and melted butter until evenly combined.
3️⃣ Crust the Salmon
Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each salmon fillet to form an even crust.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bake salmon for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden.
Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Alternative Cooking Methods 🔥
Pan-Seared + Oven Finish:
Sear salmon skin-side down in a hot pan for 3–4 minutes, flip, add crust, and finish in the oven.
Air Fryer:
Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 8–10 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve with roasted baby potatoes or lemon rice
- Pair with steamed asparagus or green beans
- Add a yogurt-dill sauce or lemon butter drizzle
Pro Tips 🌟
- Fresh dill gives the best flavor; dried dill can be used in smaller amounts
- Lemon zest adds aroma without acidity overload
- Do not overbake—salmon stays juiciest when slightly pink in the center
- Panko creates a lighter, crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs
Storage & Reheating 🧊
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to preserve the crust
Nutrition (Approx. per serving) 🥗
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbs: 8 g
Final Thoughts 🍋🌿
This Dill and Lemon Crusted Salmon is a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and elegance. With its crispy top and bright citrus-herb flavor, it’s a dish that feels gourmet while staying wholesome and approachable.
✨ Fresh. Crispy. Perfectly balanced. ✨






