Carnivore Parmesan Crusted Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with a crispy parmesan crust, creating a beautiful contrast of textures. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s high in protein and healthy fats—ideal for anyone on a carnivore or low-carb diet.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh for better texture)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness and moisture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a convection oven, you can go down to 350°F (175°C) for more even heat distribution.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure the crust sticks well. Place the fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Make the Parmesan Crust Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, melted butter, mayonnaise (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated into a paste-like mixture. The mayonnaise adds richness and helps the crust stick to the fish, but you can skip it if you prefer a more straightforward carnivore version.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Crust the Salmon:
- Spread a generous layer of the parmesan mixture on top of each salmon fillet. Use a spoon or spatula to press the mixture down gently so that it sticks to the fish. Make sure the entire surface of the salmon is covered, leaving the skin side exposed.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
- The parmesan crust should turn golden and crispy. If you want an extra crispy crust, you can broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor (optional).
- Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish (optional) to brighten the flavors.
Tips:
- Salmon Variations: You can use other fatty fish like trout or arctic char for this recipe, though salmon is ideal for its richness and flavor.
- Cheese Options: While parmesan is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
- For Extra Crispiness: To achieve an even crispier crust, you can pan-fry the salmon fillets first, skin-side down, in a hot skillet with a little butter or ghee for 2-3 minutes, and then transfer to the oven to finish cooking and crisp up the crust.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can experiment with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, though it won’t form as crisp a crust as real parmesan.
Serving Suggestions:
This Carnivore Parmesan Crusted Salmon is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side of roasted veggies like asparagus, cauliflower, or a simple leafy salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a rich, creamy dip or sauce like a garlic butter sauce or a simple lemon aioli for extra flavor.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through. The crust may soften slightly but will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts:
This Carnivore Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, satisfying dish with minimal carbs. The crispy parmesan crust adds a savory, rich texture that complements the tender, flaky salmon. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Enjoy!