Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Salmon Caesar Salad combines the richness of flaky, oven-baked salmon with a crisp Parmesan crust and the classic flavors of a Caesar salad. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a delicious twist on the traditional Caesar. With crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and golden croutons, this salad balances texture and flavor in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon fillets (skinless)
grated Parmesan cheese
panko breadcrumbs
olive oil
garlic powder
salt and pepper
romaine lettuce
Caesar dressing
croutons
lemon wedges (optional)
shaved Parmesan (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil, then press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the top to create a crust.

Place the salmon on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

While the salmon bakes, chop the romaine lettuce and toss it with Caesar dressing in a large bowl.

Add croutons and shaved Parmesan, tossing again to combine.

Divide the salad among plates and top with the warm, crusted salmon fillets.

Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use kale or baby spinach instead of romaine for a different green base.
Add cherry tomatoes or avocado slices for extra freshness.
Try a homemade Caesar dressing for a richer, more personalized flavor.
Swap salmon for chicken or tofu if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in separate containers—keep the salad and dressing apart from the salmon to maintain texture.
Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
To reheat the salmon, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warm and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before breading and baking.

How do I keep the crust crispy?

Avoid overloading with oil and serve immediately after baking.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko and croutons to make it gluten-free.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, but the crust might not be as crisp as baking provides better texture.

What’s the best Caesar dressing for this?

A creamy Caesar dressing with anchovy and lemon flavors works best.

Do I need to flip the salmon while baking?

No, bake it skin-side down or flat and leave the crusted side up.

Can I prepare the salmon in advance?

Yes, crust and refrigerate it up to 6 hours before baking.

How do I make it low-carb?

Skip the croutons and use almond flour instead of panko.

What’s a good side dish for this?

Garlic bread or roasted vegetables complement it well.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, just keep ingredients separate and combine before eating.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Salmon Caesar Salad is a flavorful, upscale twist on a classic favorite. It brings together the indulgence of crusted salmon with the familiar crunch and tang of Caesar salad, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or elegant lunches. Try it once, and you’ll love how easily it elevates your mealtime routine.