This low-carb Almond Crusted Salmon is made with fresh Atlantic salmon filets, coated in a honey mustard sauce and crusted with almonds. It can be baked or air fried for a simple, delicious meal.
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If you’re looking for a flavorful salmon recipe, you can’t go wrong with this almond crusted salmon. This dish combines the fresh and healthy flavors of salmon with the nutty, salty flavor of almonds and Parmesan, with a light honey mustard coating. It results in a unique and delicious meal.
Another great thing about this recipe is its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a simple green salad. You can also cut the salmon into smaller chunks and serve it as an appetizer.
Salmon is an excellent food choice for those following a keto diet. One of the main benefits of salmon is its high protein content, with a 3-ounce serving containing approximately 22 grams of protein. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or broiling it, salmon is a versatile and nutritious food that should be a staple in any keto meal plan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Salmon Filets (skin removed) – You can use any type of salmon you like, but try to find a wild salmon that’s not farm-raised. It’s better for you and the environment.
- Roasted, salted almonds – I like to use roasted salted almonds for this recipe to add flavor to the crust without having to add additional salt. If you use raw almonds, you might find it lacking a bit in flavor.
- Parmesan cheese – Use a finely grated or shredded Parmesan so it attaches easily to the salmon.
- Dijon mustard – Adds a little kick of flavoring to the salmon without overpowering the almonds.
- Honey – You can use a honey substitute or sugar-free syrup instead if you’re on a keto diet.
- Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a nice burst of acidity at the end.
Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Silicon mat or parchment paper
How to Make Almond Crusted Salmon
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step One
Grind the almonds in a food processor or mini chopper. I use my Ninja Food Chopper Express. It makes quick work of chopping things and it’s easy to clean.
Step Two
Mix the almonds and Parmesan cheese together on a plate that’s large enough to roll the salmon in.
Step Three
Mix the Dijon mustard and honey together in a small bowl. Coat the salmon with the mixture.
Step Four
Place the salmon into the baking pan and bake for 8 – 15 minutes or until your desired doneness. For food safety, the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 125°F. I don’t like to go much above that because the salmon can easily get dry above 130° F, but that’s up to you.
Remove it from the oven and serve it hot with your preferred sides.
Cooking on the Stovetop
If you don’t want to bake it in the oven, then cook the salmon skin side down in the pan for 3 – 4 minutes on medium-high, then reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 3 minutes. Then, flip the salmon so the almond crust is face-down, and cook for another 3 minutes.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
You can also air fry the almond crusted salmon. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F, add your crusted salmon fillets skin side down into the basket, and the air fryer for 8 – 12 minutes. I recommend checking at the 6-minute mark to ensure the salmon is cooking properly. There is no need to flip it!
Additional Helpful Tips
- You can also use skin on salmon, but you’ll want to sear it for 3 minutes, skin down on a pan before moving to the oven. Cook in the oven for just 5-8 minutes.
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels before rolling it in the almond misture. This will help the seasoning stick to the salmon better and create a crispier crust.
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together. This will also help prevent the salmon from drying out.
Storing Options
Storing: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: You can reheat this salmon in the oven, toaster oven, air fryer, or microwave. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 – 5 minutes or in your oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5 – 8 minutes. I avoid the microwave because the crust can get soggy, but if you are in a rush, reheat for 60 – 90 seconds until warm.
Freezing: This salmon can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. However, it’s important to note that the texture and quality of the salmon may be affected after freezing and thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you bake salmon skin up or down?
You should cook your salmon skin-side down on a greased or parchment paper lined baking sheet. For this recipe, if you’re using skin-on salmon, you would start by baking it skin-side down and then flip it over so it gets evenly cooked.
Can I use frozen salmon for almond crusted salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it properly before seasoning and baking.
Can I make almond crusted salmon in the air fryer?
The air fryer is a great way to cook salmon. If you want to make this almond crusted salmon in the air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 360°F, add your crusted salmon fillets skin side down into the basket, and the air fryer for 8 – 12 minutes.
What To Serve With Salmon
While it makes for an easy main dish, it can be difficult to find side dishes to serve alongside it. Pairing salmon with any of these flavorful side dishes will help you create a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
- Korean-Style Cucumber Salad
- Low Carb Green Beans with Pesto and Feta
- Keto Orange Sauce Brussels Sprouts
For Even More Side Dishes to Serve with Salmon
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Almond Crusted Salmon
Equipment
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets 4-6 oz each
- 1/3 cup (48 g) almonds roasted and salted
- 1 tablespoon (5 g) Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey or honey substitute
- 1 lemon wedge for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Grind the almonds in a food processor or mini chopper.
- Mix the almonds and Parmesan cheese on a plate.
- Mix the Dijon mustard and honey together in a small bowl. Coat the salmon with the mixture.
- Roll the salmon in the almond mixture until well coated on all sides.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until your desired doneness. Internal temperature of the salmon should reach at least 115°F before removing.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Notes
- You can also use skin on salmon, but you’ll want to sear it for 3 minutes, skin down on a pan before moving to the oven. Cook in the oven for just 5-8 minutes.
- Oven: If you don’t want to bake it in the oven, then cook the salmon skin side down in the pan for 3 – 4 minutes on medium-high, then reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 3 minutes. Then, flip the salmon so the everything bagel crust is face-down, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, add your crusted salmon filets skin side down into the basket, and air fryer for 8-10 minutes. Check the internal temperature at the 6-minute mark to make sure you don’t overcook it. There is no need to flip it!
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels before rolling it in the almond moisture. This will help the seasoning stick to the salmon better and create a crispier crust.
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together. This will also help prevent the salmon from drying out.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Laura is dedicated to a low-carb lifestyle after losing 52 pounds on the keto diet. As many of us do, she struggles with her weight and has found that one of the only diet lifestyles that allows her to maintain a healthy weight is a low-carb diet. She shares her favorite low-carb recipes here that are both easy to make and full of flavor, so you don’t even miss the carbs.