Crispy Sesame-Crusted Salmon Fillets
Elevate your dinner experience with these crispy sesame-crusted salmon fillets that deliver a delightful crunch with every bite. The natural richness of the salmon pairs perfectly with a nutty sesame seed coating, making this dish both simple and sophisticated. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite glaze or a refreshing dill sauce for added flavor. This recipe not only comes together quickly, but it also embodies a healthy, low-carb dinner option for you and your loved ones.
4-6
Servings
300
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
salmon fillets
4-6 (about 6 oz each, skinned)
salt
to taste (freshly ground black pepper)
sesame oil
1 tablespoon (or vegetable oil)
sesame seeds
1/4 cup
Instructions
1
Begin by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
2
Drizzle a tablespoon of sesame oil over the fillets, ensuring an even coat, then press sesame seeds onto both sides of the salmon to create a crust.
3
In a large, preferably non-stick skillet, heat the remaining sesame oil over moderate heat until it shimmers, indicating it's ready for cooking.
4
Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable, and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, allowing the bottom to become golden brown and the fillets to cook until the bottom half is opaque.
5
Gently flip the fillets using a spatula, taking care not to disturb the sesame crust. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and firm to the touch.
6
Once cooked, remove from the skillet and serve immediately, optionally garnished with a sprig of dill or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
2g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Sesame-Crusted Salmon?
It is a dish featuring salmon fillets coated in sesame seeds and pan-fried to create a crunchy, nutty exterior with a tender interior.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve between 4 and 6 people.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, with only 2g of carbohydrates per serving, it is a great low-carb dinner option.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What size should the salmon fillets be?
The recipe calls for salmon fillets that are about 6 ounces each.
Should the salmon be skinned?
The recipe recommends using skinned salmon fillets for the best sesame crust coverage.
Can I use vegetable oil instead of sesame oil?
Yes, you can substitute sesame oil with vegetable oil if preferred.
How do I get the sesame seeds to stick to the salmon?
Drizzle the fillets with oil first, then press the sesame seeds firmly onto both sides of the fish.
How long do I cook the salmon on the first side?
Cook the fillets undisturbed for about 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
How long do I cook the salmon on the second side?
After flipping, cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the fish is opaque.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and firm to the touch.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, the high protein and fat content combined with low carbs make it ideal for a keto diet.
Do I need a non-stick skillet for this recipe?
A non-stick skillet is preferred to ensure the sesame crust does not stick to the pan.
What can I serve with this sesame-crusted salmon?
It pairs well with a favorite glaze, a refreshing dill sauce, or fresh vegetables.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 20g of protein in each serving of this dish.
Can I use black sesame seeds instead of white?
Yes, you can use black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, or a combination of both.
How do I prevent the sesame seeds from burning?
Maintain moderate heat and ensure the oil is shimmering before adding the fish to the pan.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying it?
While pan-frying yields the best crunch, you can bake it at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until cooked through.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze the cooked sesame-crusted salmon?
Freezing is possible, though the sesame crust may lose its crispness upon thawing and reheating.
What is a good garnish for this dish?
A sprig of fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon juice adds a nice brightness to the finished dish.
Why did my sesame crust fall off?
Ensure the fish is patted dry before oiling and press the seeds firmly into the surface.
How much fat is in this recipe?
Each serving contains 20g of fat.
Are there any sugars in this recipe?
No, this specific recipe does not contain any added sugars.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before applying the crust.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
Season the fillets generously on both sides according to your personal taste.
How long does the entire recipe take to make?
The preparation and cooking process is quick, taking roughly 15 to 20 minutes in total.
Can I use this crust on other types of fish?
Yes, this sesame crust works well on other firm fish like tuna or halibut.
What is the texture of the sesame crust?
The crust is very crunchy and nutty, providing a great contrast to the flaky salmon.