Forget boring baked salmon recipes! This fall, let's create a culinary canvas where the earthy richness of salmon meets the creamy sweetness of butternut squash, all under a crown of crunchy walnuts. Imagine tender salmon nestled on a bed of roasted squash, its surface studded with the nutty goodness of a buttery walnut crust. This isn't just any baked salmon recipe, it's a vibrant ode to autumn, ready to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8oz each)
RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 01- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Let's set the stage for this delightful butternut squash recipe!
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- The aroma will fill your kitchen with the promise of a delectable baked salmon recipes to come!
- While the squash roasts, let's craft the crown of our culinary masterpiece: the walnut crust!
- In a food processor, pulse the chopped walnuts and panko breadcrumbs until finely ground.
- Add the melted butter, maple syrup, and paprika, and pulse again until a buttery, crumbly mixture forms.
- This is the secret weapon of our baked salmon recipe – it will add a delightful textural contrast to the tender salmon!
- While you work your magic with the crust, let's prep the star of the show: the salmon!
- Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, just until golden brown.
STEP 04
- Remember, we're not aiming for cooked-through yet – that's where the oven comes in for our baked salmon recipe!
- Transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
- Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet and cook for another minute, just to warm them through.
- Now, let's assemble the masterpiece!
- Spoon the fluffy butternut squash onto plates.
- Top each dollop with the seared salmon fillet.
- Generously press the walnut crust onto the top of the salmon, ensuring it sticks well.
- Transfer the plates to the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking and the crust is golden brown and fragrant.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for a final touch of rustic elegance, and voila!
- Your baked salmon recipes masterpiece is complete, ready to transport you to a cozy cabin nestled among autumn leaves.
PERSONAL RECIPE EXPERIENCE
This Baked Salmon Butternut Squash Recipe with Walnut Crust recipe has become a fall staple in my kitchen. The combination of sweet squash, buttery walnuts, and the rich salmon is simply divine. It's a dish that feels warm and comforting yet surprisingly light, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you're hosting a small gathering. My guests always rave about it, begging for the recipe!
EXTRA TIPS:
- For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the butternut squash when roasting.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a cooling counterpoint to the savory flavors.
- Leftover crust? Sprinkle it over roasted vegetables or salads for a crunchy surprise.
HEALTH BENEFITS
This butternut squash recipe isn't just about indulgence, it's packed with goodness! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber. And the walnuts? They add a dose of healthy fats and protein. So feel good about indulging in this baked salmon recipe, knowing you're nourishing your body and soul!
NOTE
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the size of your butternut squash cubes. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed for your perfect baked salmon recipes.
CONCLUSION
This Baked Salmon Butternut Squash Recipe with Walnut Crust is more than just a baked salmon recipes. It's an invitation to savor the season's bounty, to celebrate the simple pleasures of good food, and to share a delicious meal with loved ones. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of fall flavors dance on your plate!
For more baked salmon recipes like this: Have a quick look!