Imagine a salmon dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience – where sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors dance together on your plate! This Sweet Spicy Pecan Crusted Salmon isn't just another fish recipe; it's a gourmet adventure that will elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent. With a perfectly crispy pecan crust that delivers a tantalizing kick of cayenne and a hint of brown sugar sweetness, this dish promises to be the showstopper at your next meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Take the salmon fillets and place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Pat the top of each fillet dry with a paper towel to ensure the crust adheres well.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. This will not only add flavor but also help the pecan mixture stick.
- Evenly press the pecan mixture onto the top of each fillet, ensuring that the salmon is well-coated with the crust.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The pecan crust should be golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- Serve the Sweet Spicy Pecan Crusted Salmon with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before applying the mustard and pecan crust to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the most robust flavor and crunch.
- Don't overcook the salmon – it should be just opaque and flake easily. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on fillet thickness.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the pecans lightly before chopping and mixing with the spices.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder spice profile.
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to help retain its moisture and ensure a tender, juicy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 448kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
