Name: Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds salmon (skin and bones removed); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves (finely chopped); 1/2 cup fresh dill leaves (finely chopped); 2 stalks green onions (finely chopped); 2 whole lemons (zested and juiced); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 59 reviews

If you’re looking for a bright, fresh, and utterly delicious way to enjoy salmon, this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the natural richness of perfectly cooked salmon with a vibrant crust of fresh herbs and zesty lemon that brings each bite to life. The result is a stunning, flavorful dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for entertaining guests. You’ll love how the herbs create a tantalizing crust that locks in moisture and taste, making this dish one of my all-time favorites to share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two thick, bright orange salmon fillets lightly sprinkled with coarse salt and black pepper are placed side by side on a bed of fresh green cilantro leaves. The fillets show fine, natural lines of the fish texture. They rest inside a dark, rustic cast iron pan with a slightly worn surface. The pan is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the balanced flavor and beautiful texture you’ll enjoy. Fresh herbs add brightness, lemon juice and zest give a sunny tang, and olive oil ensures juicy, tender salmon with a gorgeous crust.

Salmon: 2 pounds, skin and bones removed for easy eating and perfect cooking.
Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for a subtle kick that complements the herbs.
Lemons: 2 whole, zested and juiced to bring bright acidity and fragrance.
Olive oil: 1/4 cup to keep the salmon moist and help the herb crust adhere.
White wine: 1/4 cup, preferably something like Pinot Grigio, adding a subtle, delicate fruitiness.
Fresh parsley leaves: 1/2 cup, finely chopped for fresh, clean herbal notes.
Fresh dill leaves: 1/2 cup, finely chopped for that classic salmon pairing and aromatic lift.
Green onions: 2 stalks, finely chopped, providing a mild onion flavor and crunch.

How to Make Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, pat your salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial—removing moisture ensures that the herb crust sticks beautifully and the salmon bakes to a perfect, slightly crisp finish on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Step 2: Line Your Baking Dish

Choose either a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet, and line it with a bed of fresh herbs and a few lemon slices. If you prefer, you can use parchment paper for easy cleanup. This fragrant herb layer will infuse the salmon with additional flavor as it cooks. It’s like giving your fish a cozy, aromatic nest to rest on.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Place the dried salmon on top of the herb bed and season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here—this seasoning builds the savory foundation of the dish, enhancing the natural taste of the salmon and perfectly balancing the herbal notes.

Step 4: Create the Herb Crust

Mix all the chopped parsley, dill, and green onions together, then scatter this vibrant herb blend evenly over the salmon fillets. Press down gently so the herbs stick well, forming that beautiful “crust” you’ll savor. This herb topping is what makes the Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe truly stand out.

Step 5: Add Moisture and Flavor

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest and juice, and white wine. Pour this mixture around and on top of the salmon, making sure it gets into every nook and cranny. If you have extra lemon slices, place a few on top to intensify the citrus aroma during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the salmon in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as thicker fillets may need a little more time, while thinner pieces will cook faster. The salmon should be just cooked through, tender and flaky, while the herb crust remains fresh and fragrant.

How to Serve Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe

A black cast iron pan holds two thick salmon fillets with rich orange color, fully covered with finely chopped bright green herbs like parsley and dill, creating an even textured layer on top. Above them, a clear glass measuring cup pours a shiny yellow liquid over the herbs, catching light and highlighting the motion. Some loose herb leaves are around the edges inside the pan. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, a few extra fresh herb sprigs like parsley or dill look lovely, adding a splash of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a wedge of lemon served on the side invites guests to customize their bites for that added zing.

Side Dishes

This Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted baby potatoes with garlic, or steamed asparagus. The freshness of the herbs in the salmon complements crisp green vegetables and earthy potatoes wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, serve the salmon on a wooden board garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices. You could also plate it over a bed of quinoa or rice to soak up any flavorful juices. For casual entertaining, flake the salmon onto crostini with a smear of herbed cream cheese for bite-sized appetizers that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within two days to keep its fresh herbal flavor and tender texture.

Freezing

While fresh salmon is best, you can freeze cooked leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, use within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to maintain moisture and prevent the herb crust from burning. Microwaving is best avoided as it can make the salmon dry and the herbs lose some of their vibrancy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon as long as it is fully thawed and very well patted dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture ensures the herb crust sticks nicely and the salmon cooks evenly.

Is it okay to substitute dried herbs for fresh?

Fresh herbs provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe, but if you only have dried herbs, use about one-third of the quantity and sprinkle them on before baking since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What if I don’t have white wine?

If you don’t have white wine on hand, you can substitute it with chicken broth or extra lemon juice. Both options add moisture and complement the flavor, though the wine’s subtle fruity notes add a lovely complexity.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Cooking times vary with thickness, so start checking around 10 minutes, especially if your fillets are thin.

Can I grill this herb crusted salmon instead of baking it?

Grilling is a great alternative! Just be sure to use a grill-safe pan or foil to keep the herb crust intact. Grill over medium heat and watch carefully as cooking times may be shorter.

Final Thoughts

This Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and fresh herbs can transform a common weeknight dinner into something memorable and delicious. It’s approachable, bursting with flavor, and impressive in presentation—perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a favorite to make again and again, and a dish you’ll want to share with everyone you know.