Hello, my foodie friends, unleash your inner chef and get ready to turn up your culinary game because we are jumping into the realm of delectable dinners with a showstopper recipe: Crusted Pistachio Salmon with Asparagus in the oven. Get ready to elevate your meal prep game and indulge in a restaurant-quality dinner right at home! This dish is not only packed with flavor and nutrition, but it’s also the epitome of convenience. So, let’s get started and uncover why this recipe is a must-try for your next meal prep session!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.
Recipe Magic
Now, let’s talk about the magic of this recipe: the restaurant-quality experience. The combination of the moist and tender salmon, the crunchy and flavorful pistachio crust, and the perfectly roasted asparagus creates a harmony of flavors and textures that rival any high-end restaurant dish. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can recreate the same level of elegance and taste right in your own kitchen.
Pistachios are delightful nuts that bring a delightful crunch and rich flavor to the salmon crust. But that’s not all—pistachios are also loaded with heart-healthy fats, protein, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals. By incorporating pistachios into this dish, we’re adding a nutritional boost that pairs perfectly with the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon.
Speaking of salmon, this recipe is a fantastic option for a filling, low-carb dinner. Salmon is a great source of high-quality protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a filling meal. The pistachio crust adds an additional layer of texture and flavor, transforming an already incredible protein into a culinary masterpiece.
To Prepare This Baked Salmon Recipe You’ll Need
- Salmon: Use fresh salmon or frozen filets. If using frozen filets, be sure you thaw them out in the refrigerator in advance prior to baking.
- Pistachios: If you can’t find pistachios, you can use pine nuts
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a nice spice to the dish, but you can also use regular mustard or even mayo.
- Asparagus: Add minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil to add flavor
Easy Recipe Steps to Make Pistachio-Crusted Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 400F.
- Use a knife or a food processor to finely chop the pistachios.
- Place the salmon and asparagus on a sheet pan.
- Spread the Dijon mustard on the salmon and sprinkle with garlic powder and salt. Then, sprinkle the chopped pistachios on the top of the salmon making sure it is fully coated.
- Season the asparagus with salt, minced garlic, and drizzle it with olive oil.
- Bake everything in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Squeeze lemon juice on top of the salmon and asparagus for added citrus flavors.
Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Meal Prep Tips
- To prevent the pistachio crust from burning, you can cover the salmon loosely with foil during the initial part of the baking process. This will allow the salmon to cook through while protecting the crust. Towards the end, remove the foil to let the crust develop a beautiful golden color.
- You can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Thaw the salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the recipe. It’s important to ensure the salmon is completely thawed before applying the pistachio crust and baking.
- Storage: Once the salmon and asparagus are cooked and cooled, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can keep them for up to three days.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the salmon and asparagus in the oven at a low temperature to retain their texture and flavors. Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly, taking care not to overcook them.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Baked Pistachio Crusted Salmon with Asparagus alongside a fresh salad, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete and balanced meal. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the salmon just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Certainly! While the recipe calls for salmon, you can experiment with other fish varieties such as trout, cod, or halibut. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fish, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make the pistachio crust in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pistachio crust ahead of time and store it in an airtight container or sealable bag. When you’re ready to cook, simply coat the salmon fillets with the crust mixture and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Can I substitute the asparagus with another vegetable?
While asparagus pairs wonderfully with the pistachio-crusted salmon, you can swap it with other vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are roasted to perfection.
Oven Baked Pistachio Crusted Salmon with Roasted Asparagus
Equipment
Ingredients
Salmon and Pistachio Crust
Asparagus
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition