Chef Mitchell preparing Herb Crusted Butter Salmon
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Herb Crusted Butter Salmon recipe while experimenting with herb combinations in my kitchen. After several attempts to perfect the balance of flavors, I finally created a dish that my family couldn't get enough of. Each bite is a symphony of buttery richness and fresh herbs, reminding me of summer days spent outdoors. This recipe has since become a staple in our home."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in American cuisine, particularly in creating delicious dinner recipes. Having graduated from culinary school, he has developed a passion for using fresh ingredients to enhance traditional dishes. His expertise in flavor pairing ensures every recipe is both unique and satisfying.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Herb Crusted Butter Salmon served on a plate

Why This Herb Crusted Butter Salmon Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simple yet impactful combination of fresh herbs and rich butter. The herb crust not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful texture that enhances the overall dining experience. Using quality ingredients like fresh salmon and real butter elevates the dish to a gourmet level without the complexity.

The technique involves baking and broiling, which ensures the salmon remains moist while developing a crispy top. This method balances the cooking time perfectly, allowing the flavors and textures to shine. It's an easy, foolproof way to impress guests or enjoy a hearty family meal.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, allow the butter to come to room temperature before mixing with the herbs. This ensures a smooth spread and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, using fresh herbs over dried ones will enhance the taste significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the herb butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just spread it on the salmon before baking when you're ready to cook. However, it’s best to bake the salmon fresh for optimal taste and texture.

If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead, but use less as dried herbs are more concentrated. A good starting point is to use one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Alternatively, you can use herbed butter from the store for convenience.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can also look for a slightly opaque appearance. If using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the fish for an accurate reading.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked salmon with the herb butter mixture on top. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Herb Crusted Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with quinoa or rice for a complete meal. Finish with a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooked Herb Crusted Butter Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain the best texture.

While it's best to bake it fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Assemble the salmon with the herb crust and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. This way, you can enjoy a quick dinner prep.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the salmon with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating and texture loss.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: Your salmon may turn out dry if overcooked.

Solution: To prevent dryness, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C). Let it rest before serving to retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes the herb crust may not achieve the desired crispiness.

Solution: Make sure to broil the salmon for the last few minutes of cooking to enhance the crispiness of the crust. This step adds texture and contrast to the dish.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked salmon can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, set a timer and check the fish at the minimum cooking time recommended. If you're unsure, remove it from the oven as soon as it begins to flake.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Sometimes the center of the salmon may remain undercooked.

Recovery: If the salmon is undercooked, return it to the oven and continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments until it reaches the desired doneness. Covering it with foil can help it cook evenly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of the salmon burns before the inside is cooked, it can ruin the dish.

Prevention: To avoid this, keep an eye on the salmon while cooking, and consider lowering the temperature if you notice it browning too quickly. Broiling should only be done for a short duration.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, serving it with a side of unsalted grains such as rice or quinoa can help balance the overall flavor.

Bland: If the dish lacks flavor, consider adding more herbs or a sprinkle of salt and pepper before serving.

Fresh ingredients for Herb Crusted Butter Salmon

Essential Ingredients for Herb Crusted Butter Salmon

The key ingredients in this recipe include fresh salmon, quality butter, and a blend of herbs. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating a rich and flavorful dish. Fresh salmon ensures a moist and flaky texture, while the herbs add depth and brightness.

Using high-quality butter is crucial for achieving that creamy texture in the herb crust. Always opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. Invest in fresh herbs if possible, as they make a noticeable difference in flavor and aroma.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Salmon: Choose a fresh, high-quality salmon fillet for the best flavor. Look for vibrant color and minimal fishy smell. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its superior taste and health benefits.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill elevate the flavor profile. Always wash and dry them thoroughly before chopping. You can experiment with other herbs such as thyme or basil for different flavors.
  • Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning in the dish. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing with herbs. Quality butter enhances the richness and flavor of the crust.
Cooking process for Herb Crusted Butter Salmon

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Herb Crusted Butter Salmon is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by preparing your ingredients and preheating the oven. The assembly requires minimal effort, making it beginner-friendly. You'll be amazed at how quickly the dish comes together.

Pay attention to the cooking time to achieve a perfectly cooked salmon. The combination of baking and broiling results in a harmonious texture – moist on the inside with a crispy topping. It’s an achievable dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Key Technique for Perfect Herb Crusted Butter Salmon

The key technique lies in balancing the baking and broiling phases. Baking ensures the salmon cooks through evenly, while broiling adds that final crispy touch to the herb crust. Monitoring the temperature closely will help achieve the ideal result.

Herb Crusted Butter Salmon

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs salmon fillet
    Skin-on
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    Plain or panko
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillet skin-side down.

  2. Make the Herb Butter Mixture

    In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, dill, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.

  3. Spread the Mixture

    Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillet.

  4. Add Lemon Slices

    Place lemon slices on top of the herb crust for added flavor.

  5. Bake the Salmon

    Drizzle the salmon with olive oil, then bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

  6. Broil for Crispiness

    For a crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  7. Remove from Oven

    Carefully remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

  8. Serve

    Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Herb Crusted Butter Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid stacking pieces on top of one another. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Herb Crusted Butter Salmon with fresh vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Adding a glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully. Feel free to garnish with additional herbs for presentation.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this dish by adding different herbs like thyme or basil for variety. Consider using a mix of cheeses for the crust or adding spices for an extra kick. For a lighter version, try grilling the salmon instead of baking.