Flavorful & Easy Italian Almond Crusted Salmon: Your Ultimate Paleo & Whole30 Weeknight Meal
Discover the secret to a perfectly flavorful and incredibly simple dinner with this Italian Almond Crusted Salmon recipe. Approved for both Paleo and Whole30 diets, this baked salmon dish transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into a gourmet experience that comes together surprisingly fast. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood enthusiast or someone hesitant about fish, this recipe is designed to impress with its delightful crunch and vibrant flavors. Follow our expert tips below to create the most delicious almond-crusted salmon you’ve ever tasted.
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The core ingredients you’ll need for this exceptional dish are: fresh salmon fillets, finely ground almond flour, robust Italian seasoning, a bright lemon, rich coconut oil, and of course, salt and pepper to taste.
This post was last updated in January 2019 to provide the most current tips and recipe enhancements.
Let’s be candid for a moment: I’ve never been a huge fan of fish – with the delicious exception of shellfish! My husband, on the other hand, absolutely adores it and could happily eat it every single day. If given the choice, I’d usually opt for something else entirely. Yes, I know, I know… it’s incredibly healthy, especially wild-caught varieties, but for the longest time, I just couldn’t bring myself to genuinely enjoy it. That all changed one memorable evening when I decided to try something new!
The turning point came when my husband arrived home beaming, proudly presenting some beautiful Alaskan wild-caught salmon he’d just purchased from our local Co-op. He eagerly asked me to cook it for dinner. As a supportive partner (mostly!), I took on the challenge. I admit, there might have been a moment or two of internal debate about my culinary destiny, and perhaps a fleeting thought of whipping up a separate meal just for myself. After all, nobody’s perfect, right?
I started brainstorming ways to prepare it, hoping to mask any strong “fishy” taste that usually put me off. Then, a spontaneous idea sparked: why not try a crusted fish? I envisioned a crispy coating that would add texture and flavor, potentially transforming my perception. To my absolute delight, it worked! The result was unexpectedly delicious, so much so that we made it again just a few nights later. This Italian almond-crusted salmon truly converted me – not necessarily into a general fish enthusiast, but certainly into a dedicated lover of this specific recipe!
This recipe truly highlights the benefits of incorporating salmon into your diet. Wild-caught salmon is a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in essential Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. It’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein, vital vitamins like D and B12, and minerals such as selenium and potassium. Pairing it with a wholesome almond crust not only adds incredible flavor and texture but also keeps the meal gluten-free and compliant with popular healthy eating plans like Paleo and Whole30.
Tips For Making Almond Crusted Salmon:
Crafting the perfect Italian almond-crusted salmon is simpler than you might think, especially with these helpful tips:
- **Almond Flour for the Ideal Crust:** Using finely ground almond flour is key for creating a quick, easy, and uniformly textured crust. It adheres beautifully to the salmon, delivering a delightful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Plus, it keeps the recipe gluten-free and low-carb, aligning perfectly with Paleo and Whole30 dietary guidelines.
- **DIY Almond Flour Alternative:** If you don’t have almond flour on hand, you can easily make your own. Simply pulse blanched whole almonds in a food processor until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with almond butter! For a slightly more rustic texture, you can even leave the skins on the almonds before processing.
- **Achieving the Perfect Crisp with Broiling:** After the initial baking, a short stint under the broiler is essential for developing that irresistible golden-brown, crispy almond crust. This high heat quickly caramelizes the surface, enhancing both flavor and texture. **Important:** Keep a very close eye on the salmon during this step, as almond flour can burn quickly under the broiler. Just a few minutes, typically 3-5, are usually sufficient to achieve a beautiful crisp.
- **Italian Seasoning – Your Flavor Hero:** You have the flexibility to use a pre-mixed Italian seasoning blend for convenience, or you can easily create your own. A homemade blend ensures freshness and allows for customization. A good basic mix often includes equal parts dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, with an optional pinch of marjoram and garlic powder for added depth. This aromatic blend is what gives the salmon its distinctly Italian character.
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Tools and Ingredients you may need:
To prepare this delectable Italian Almond Crusted Salmon, gather the following essential tools and ingredients for a smooth cooking process:
- **Cookie Sheet or Baking Pan:** A sturdy baking sheet is fundamental for evenly cooking the salmon fillets. Choose one with raised edges to prevent any juices from spilling.
- **Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat:** Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat ensures that the salmon doesn’t stick and makes for super easy cleanup. It also helps in achieving a crispier crust.
- **Almond Flour:** This is the star of our crust! Make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- **Italian Seasoning:** A high-quality blend of dried herbs to infuse your salmon with classic Mediterranean flavors.
- **Small Dishes:** Useful for combining the almond flour and seasoning, as well as for holding melted coconut oil or lemon juice.
- **Spoon:** For mixing ingredients and drizzling oil.
- **Fresh Salmon Fillets:** Aim for wild-caught salmon for superior flavor and nutritional benefits.
- **Lemon:** A fresh lemon provides bright, zesty notes that perfectly complement the richness of the salmon and the earthiness of the almonds.
- **Coconut Oil:** Used for drizzling over the salmon, it helps the crust adhere and adds a lovely flavor while keeping the dish compliant with Paleo and Whole30 guidelines.
- **Salt and Pepper:** Essential pantry staples for seasoning to taste.
How To Make Almond Crusted Salmon
Creating this flavorful Italian almond crusted salmon is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect weeknight meal:
- **Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients:** Start by gathering all your required ingredients and tools on your countertop. This ensures a seamless cooking experience.
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**Preheat Your Oven:** Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 200 degrees Celsius). Allowing the oven to fully preheat is crucial for even cooking and a beautifully browned crust.
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**Prepare the Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the salmon from sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Place the salmon fillets on the lined sheet, skin-side-down (if applicable).
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**Add Zesty Lemon:** Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the salmon fillets. The lemon not only adds a bright, tangy flavor but also helps to tenderize the fish and cut through its richness.
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**Season Generously:** Season the salmon evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
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**Create the Almond Crust Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine the almond flour and Italian seasonings. Mix them thoroughly until well integrated. Evenly sprinkle this aromatic mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, gently pressing down to ensure the crust adheres well.
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**Drizzle with Coconut Oil:** Melt the coconut oil (if solid) and drizzle it lightly over the almond-crusted salmon. This helps the crust become golden and crispy while adding a subtle tropical note.
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**Bake to Perfection:** Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and your oven’s calibration.
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**Broil for Extra Crispiness:** For an extra crispy crust, set your oven to broil after the initial baking time. Broil the salmon for about 3-5 minutes, watching very closely to prevent burning, until the almond crust turns a beautiful golden brown. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) for optimal doneness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Want more healthy recipes? Check these out.
If you loved this healthy and delicious salmon recipe, you’re in for a treat! Explore more wholesome and flavorful options that cater to various dietary needs:
- **Sausage Potato Soup** is a hearty and comforting meal that can easily be made Paleo and Whole30-compliant by simply omitting the beans. It’s packed with savory flavors and nourishing ingredients.
- Dive into this delicious list of **20+ Whole30 Approved Recipes**. You’ll find a wide array of meals, from breakfast to dinner, that will keep your Whole30 journey exciting and satisfying.
- Satisfy your sweet cravings guilt-free with our **Paleo Apple Crisp**. This delightful dessert is packed with warm spices and tender apples, making it a perfect healthy treat for any occasion.
- For a super hearty and robust meal, try our **Vegetable Beef Stew**. Like our soup, you can easily skip the beans to make it a comforting Paleo and Whole30-friendly option. It’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Italian Almond Crusted Salmon Recipe {Paleo & Whole30 Approved}
This delectable almond-crusted salmon recipe offers a truly easy baked salmon experience, beautifully crafted with wholesome almond flour, fragrant Italian seasoning, and a delightful hint of fresh lemon flavor. It’s the ideal choice for a quick yet elegant meal, perfect for any night of the week.
Experience level: easy
Paleo Italian Almond Crusted Salmon
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Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon preferably wild caught, cut into 4 fillets
- 2 Tbs almond flour (finely ground)
- 1 Tbs Italian seasonings (pre-mixed or homemade)
- juice 1/2 a lemon (freshly squeezed)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Tbs coconut oil (melted)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and the crust gets a head start on crisping.
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Lay the salmon fillets, scale-side-down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
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Squeeze the juice from half a lemon evenly over all the salmon fillets. The lemon juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the fish.
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Season the salmon generously with salt and pepper on all sides for enhanced flavor.
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In a small bowl, combine the almond flour and Italian seasonings. Mix them thoroughly to create a uniform crust mixture. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, gently pressing it down so it adheres well.
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Drizzle the melted coconut oil over the almond-crusted fish. This helps the crust brown beautifully and adds a lovely richness.
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Bake the salmon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for 15 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your fillets.
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For an extra crispy crust, carefully set your oven to broil. Broil the salmon until the almond crust begins to turn golden brown, typically about 3-5 minutes. Watch it very closely to prevent burning. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63°C) when fully cooked.
Nutrition
So, tell us: are you a passionate fish lover, or like my former self, are you still on the fence about it? Perhaps this Italian Almond Crusted Salmon is just the recipe to win you over too!