FREE PRINTABLE RECIPE
Get the Printable Recipe PDF (Free)
Enter your email and we’ll send you the ingredients + step-by-step instructions as a clean PDF you can save to your phone.
- ✅ Printable PDF (ingredients + steps)
- ✅ Save it to your phone (no long scrolling)
- ✅ Includes cook time + servings
- ✅ Easy to follow
FAQ
Where’s the full recipe?
It’s delivered as a printable PDF so you can save it and cook without scrolling.
I didn’t get the email.
Check Spam/Promotions and search your inbox for your site name. Then click Confirm to receive the PDF.
best salmon recipe ever
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, High-Protein
Description
This Za’atar-Spiced Walnut Crumble salmon is a gourmet-feeling yet easy-to-make dish, transforming a simple salmon fillet into an unforgettable healthy, high-protein meal with crispy edges and a creamy center. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, offering delightful aromas and flavors.
Ingredients
- 680 g (1.5 lb) fresh salmon fillet, skin-on or skin-off, cut into 4 portions
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon) extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 5 ml (1 teaspoon) fine sea salt
- 2.5 ml (0.5 teaspoon) freshly ground black pepper
- 60 ml (0.25 cup) date syrup (Swap: Maple syrup or honey works beautifully)
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
- 1 large clove (approx. 5 g or 1 teaspoon) minced garlic
- 2.5 ml (0.5 teaspoon) red pepper flakes (optional)
- 75 g (0.75 cup) walnuts, roughly chopped (Swap: Pecans or almonds could also be used)
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon) Za’atar spice blend
- 30 g (0.25 cup) fresh pomegranate arils, for garnish
- 10 g (0.25 cup) fresh mint leaves, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Salmon and Crumble: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat salmon portions very dry. Rub salmon with 5 ml (1 teaspoon) olive oil, then season evenly with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together date syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) for the glaze. Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry small pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat, transfer to a small bowl, and stir in the za’atar blend and remaining 10 ml (2 teaspoons) olive oil to create the crumble.
- Bake Salmon: Place seasoned salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes. Remove from oven, brush generously with half of the date syrup glaze. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 52-54°C (125-130°F) for medium-rare, or desired doneness. For extra crispness, broil for 1-2 minutes (optional), watching carefully to prevent burning. Let rest for 2 minutes.
- Pan-Sear Option: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 4-6 minutes until skin is crispy and deeply golden. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until desired internal temperature is reached.
- Air Fry Option: Place seasoned salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily. Glaze can be brushed on halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
- Instant Pot Option: Place a trivet in your Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water or broth. Arrange seasoned salmon fillets on the trivet. Pressure cook on high for 4-6 minutes (depending on thickness), followed by a quick release. (Note: This method yields incredibly moist and tender salmon but is not ideal for the crumble.)
- Finish and Serve: Arrange each salmon fillet. Spoon a generous amount of the za’atar-walnut crumble over the top, allowing some to cascade gently. Scatter fresh pomegranate arils and chopped mint leaves around the salmon and over the crumble for vibrant color and fresh aroma. Serve immediately.
Notes
If salmon appears dry, it’s likely overcooked; next time, reduce baking time by a minute or two. For a gluten-free meal, all ingredients are naturally compliant, but always check spice blends. For those watching sugar intake, reduce date syrup or use a sugar-free alternative. When selecting salmon, look for firm, bright flesh with no strong ‘fishy’ odor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Versatile (Baking, Pan-Searing, Air Frying, Instant Pot)
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 170 g)
- Calories: 550 calories
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg