Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mango Salsa

Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of crispy, golden salmon with a fresh and tangy mango salsa. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also light and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The crunchy, golden crust on the salmon adds a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the bright and zesty mango salsa. The combination of Parmesan cheese, chili powder, and paprika gives the salmon fillets a flavorful, savory bite, while the fresh mango salsa adds a burst of sweetness and freshness. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is both simple and impressive, making it ideal for busy evenings or dinner parties.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crusted Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets

• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 large eggs, whisked

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons sea salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 small fresh mango, diced

• 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of half a lemon or lime

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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

Directions

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Breading Station:

1. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with the panko-Parmesan mixture.

2. Dip each salmon fillet into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the fillet thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with the remaining fillets.

Cook the Salmon:

1. Place the coated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

2. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky, and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Check with a fork to ensure the salmon is done.

Prepare the Mango Salsa:

1. While the salmon cooks, combine the diced mango, grape tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lemon or lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix well.

Serve:

1. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately.

2. Top each fillet with a generous spoonful of mango salsa.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• For a spicier salsa: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mango salsa.

• Vegetarian option: You can substitute the salmon with another firm fish or even roasted vegetables for a plant-based option.

• Different toppings: Try adding avocado slices or a drizzle of sour cream or yogurt to the tacos for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked salmon and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon in the air fryer or oven to maintain the crispiness, and serve the salsa fresh or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

2. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before breading and cooking.

3. Can I substitute the panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko breadcrumbs will give a crispier texture to the crust.

4. Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mango salsa up to 2 hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

5. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

6. Can I add more spices to the salmon crust?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference, such as adding cumin, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

7. How can I make the salsa sweeter?

For a sweeter salsa, add more mango or a teaspoon of honey to balance out the flavors.

8. Can I grill the salmon instead of cooking it in the air fryer?

Yes, grilling the salmon works beautifully. Just make sure to oil the grill grates and cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side.

9. Can I use a different fruit for the salsa?

Yes, you can substitute mango with pineapple, peach, or papaya for a different fruity flavor.

10. How should I serve this dish?

Serve the Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mango Salsa alongside rice, quinoa, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mango Salsa is a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the richness of crispy salmon with the fresh, sweet flavors of mango salsa. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will be sure to impress your guests! Enjoy!

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