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Parmesan-Herb Baked Salmon Recipe

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4 from 1 review

This Parmesan-Herb Baked Salmon recipe delivers a flavorful and moist salmon filet topped with a rich mixture of light mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Baked to perfection in the oven, the salmon develops a golden, herbaceous crust while staying tender and flaky inside, making it a quick and elegant dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 whole wild salmon filet with skin, 1 1/2 inches thick (2 lbs)

Parmesan-Herb Topping

  • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup later.
  2. Prepare Parmesan-Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, finely minced garlic, and all the chopped fresh herbs — dill, parsley, basil, and chives. Mix until well combined.
  3. Partially Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon filet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cover the salmon with another piece of parchment paper or foil to lock in moisture. Bake partially for 8 minutes to gently cook the salmon.
  4. Apply Topping: Remove the salmon from the oven and carefully take off the top parchment or foil layer. Spread the Parmesan-herb mixture evenly over the top of the salmon filet.
  5. Finish Baking Uncovered: Return the salmon to the oven uncovered and continue to bake until the topping is nicely browned and the fish flakes easily with a fork. This should take about 15 to 18 minutes for a 1 1/2-inch thick filet, but adjust time based on thickness.
  6. Check Doneness: Use an internal thermometer to check the salmon’s temperature; it should reach 135°F for perfectly cooked, moist fish.
  7. Serve: Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving. Enjoy the delicious Parmesan-herb baked salmon with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Using wild salmon enhances flavor and texture, but farmed salmon can be used as a substitute.
  • Light mayonnaise keeps the topping moist without excessive fat.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor; dried herbs can be used but reduce quantities by half.
  • Check the salmon’s thickness before baking as thinner fillets will require less cooking time.
  • For a crispier topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and enjoyed cold or reheated gently.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat