Pistachio Crusted Salmon

Featured in: Quick Weeknight Flames

This dish features tender salmon filets coated with a crunchy pistachio and herb crust. The pistachios are finely chopped and mixed with fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, and panko to form a flavorful coating that crisps up beautifully when pan-seared. Cooking the salmon until just flaky ensures juicy texture complemented by bright lemon wedges. Ideal for those seeking a quick, elegant seafood main with a nutty, fresh herb aroma.

Updated on Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:52:10 GMT
A golden pistachio crusted salmon filet with fresh herbs, pan-seared until crisp and served with lemon wedges.  Save
A golden pistachio crusted salmon filet with fresh herbs, pan-seared until crisp and served with lemon wedges. | fireandbites.com

Experience a beautiful harmony of textures with this Pistachio-Crusted Salmon. This dish features succulent filets topped with a vibrant, crunchy nut and herb crust that is pan-seared to achieve a stunning golden finish. It is a sophisticated yet approachable meal that brings a touch of modern flair to your dinner table.

A golden pistachio crusted salmon filet with fresh herbs, pan-seared until crisp and served with lemon wedges.  Save
A golden pistachio crusted salmon filet with fresh herbs, pan-seared until crisp and served with lemon wedges. | fireandbites.com

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a nutritious weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on both appearance and flavor. The pistachio crust seals in the moisture, ensuring every bite of the fish is perfectly cooked and seasoned.

Ingredients

  • Fish: 4 (6 oz/170 g) skinless salmon filets, Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste).
  • Pistachio Crust: 3/4 cup (100 g) unsalted shelled pistachios (finely chopped), 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley (finely chopped), 2 tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped), 1 tbsp lemon zest, 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp olive oil.
  • For Cooking: 2 tbsp olive oil, Lemon wedges (for serving).
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Instructions

Step 1
Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2
In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pistachios, parsley, dill, lemon zest, panko, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Mix well until evenly combined.
Step 3
Press the top side of each salmon filet into the pistachio mixture, coating it thickly and pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Step 5
Place the salmon filets, crust side down, in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Step 6
Carefully flip the filets and cook another 3-5 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 125–130°F/52–54°C for medium).
Step 7
Remove from the pan and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

You can easily customize the herb profile by substituting parsley and dill with fresh basil or tarragon. To complete the meal, pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs entirely, as the pistachios provide ample crunch on their own.

Serviervorschläge

This salmon is delicious when paired with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp, fresh green salad to balance the richness of the nuts.

Tender salmon topped with a crunchy pistachio and herb crust, cooked to flaky perfection and paired with roasted vegetables.  Save
Tender salmon topped with a crunchy pistachio and herb crust, cooked to flaky perfection and paired with roasted vegetables. | fireandbites.com

Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful salmon dish while it is warm, finished with a final squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten the nutty crust.

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Common Questions

How do I ensure the pistachio crust sticks well to the salmon?

Pat the salmon dry before coating and press the pistachio mixture firmly onto the filet to help it adhere during cooking.

Can I substitute the herbs in the crust?

Yes, parsley and dill can be swapped for basil or tarragon to create a different flavor profile.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit them to keep the dish gluten-free.

What is the recommended internal temperature for cooking the salmon?

Cook salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for a medium, flaky texture.

What side dishes pair well with pistachio-crusted salmon?

Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad complement the dish nicely, along with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling.

Pistachio Crusted Salmon

Salmon filets coated with a crunchy pistachio and herb crust, pan-seared to golden perfection.

Setup Duration
15 min
Time at Heat
15 min
Complete Duration
30 min
Created by Logan Hayes


Skill Level Easy

Cultural Background Modern American

Output 4 Portion Count

Special Diet Info No Dairy, No Gluten, Reduced Carbohydrate

What You'll Need

Fish

01 4 skinless salmon filets, 6 ounces each
02 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pistachio Crust

01 3/4 cup unsalted shelled pistachios, finely chopped
02 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
03 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
04 1 tablespoon lemon zest
05 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
06 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Cooking

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 Lemon wedges for serving

Method Steps

Phase 01

Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Phase 02

Create the pistachio mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pistachios, parsley, dill, lemon zest, panko breadcrumbs, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Phase 03

Coat the salmon: Press the top side of each salmon filet into the pistachio mixture, coating it thickly and pressing gently to ensure proper adhesion.

Phase 04

Heat the skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Phase 05

Sear the crust side: Place salmon filets crust side down in the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Phase 06

Cook the second side: Carefully flip the filets and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 125 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

Phase 07

Rest and serve: Remove from heat and allow to rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Shallow bowl
  • Nonstick skillet
  • Spatula

Allergy Details

Always review ingredients individually for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains fish and tree nuts (pistachio)
  • May contain gluten if using regular panko breadcrumbs
  • Always verify product labels for hidden allergens

Dietary Information (Single Portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific dietary advice.
  • Energy Content: 410
  • Fats: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Proteins: 35 g