Pistachio Crusted Salmon with Rice and Asparagus
This dish combines tender salmon fillets coated in a crunchy pistachio crust, paired with fluffy rice and crisp asparagus. It’s a balanced, flavorful meal that feels gourmet but is easy to make at home.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
1 cup unsalted pistachios (shelled, finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor)
2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
2 tbsp Dijon mustard (or honey mustard for a milder taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Rice
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (for extra flavor)
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the Asparagus
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
Salt & pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil/butter. Add rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, add a pinch of salt, bring to boil.
4. Cover, reduce to low heat, and cook 15 minutes (until fluffy).
2. Make the Pistachio Crust
1. In a small bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, panko, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush salmon fillets with Dijon mustard.
3. Press the pistachio mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
3. Cook the Salmon
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and crust is golden.
4. Roast the Asparagus
1. While salmon bakes, toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread on a sheet pan and roast in the oven (same temp as salmon) for 10–12 minutes.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over asparagus before serving.
To Serve
Fluff rice and divide onto plates.
Top with roasted asparagus.
Place pistachio crusted salmon on top or alongside.
Optional: drizzle with a touch of lemon juice or a light yogurt-dill sauce.
Notes & Tips
You can swap pistachios for almonds or walnuts.
Honey-mustard works if you like a slightly sweet crust.
For extra flavor, stir chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) into the pistachio crust.
Works beautifully with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain base.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I air fry the salmon instead of baking?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
You can assemble the crusted salmon earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Q: What wine pairs well?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
Nutrition information
Calories: 560
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 5g