This easy nut crusted salmon takes just 5 minutes to whip together and is on the table in under 30 minutes! The honey mustard glaze topped with nuts of your choice makes for the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Customize with walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios, or your favorite type of nut.

This post was first published on January 31, 2020. It was updated on March 31, 2023.

Is salmon healthy for you?

Salmon is considered a heart-healthy fish because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to be beneficial for us. Fish overall is an incredible source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin D–which can be hard to find in other food sources.

Eating fish twice a week is the magic number. It may seem like a daunting task to prepare a nice seafood meal. Luckily, this nut crusted salmon is so easy to make.

How do I make nut crusted salmon?

1. Start by making the honey glaze

In a small bowl, stir together all glaze ingredients until combined. This glaze is the perfect combination of savory and sweet with both dijon mustard and honey. The fresh thyme and rosemary pack flavor without adding calories or sodium. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead.

2. Pour the glaze over the salmon

Place salmon on a rimmed baking sheet or pan. Pour the honey glaze over the top of the salmon so it’s completely coated but not running off of the salmon. For this recipe, I am using 1 pound of salmon whole, but you could also use salmon fillets.

After pouring over the glaze, you may end up with some extra glaze. You can save this for drizzling over the salmon at the end. I also like to use the extra glaze to toss with vegetables and olive oil for roasting.

Another thing I love to do with extra glaze is freeze it. Simple add it to an ice cube tray or small plastic container and label it. Then, next time you go to make this recipe again you have your glaze all ready to go!

3. Press chopped nuts onto the glaze

Coarsely chop up nuts and press them onto the glaze over top of the salmon. You can use any nuts of your choice. I typically use almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, or a combination of them all.

Nuts are a great source of healthy fats like monounsaturated fat, as well as omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fats.

4. Finally, bake the salmon

Bake the salmon at 425 degrees for about 12-15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Fish should reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part.

This oven temperature at 425 degrees is also a great for roasting vegetables. Whenever I make this meal, I like to toss any veggies I have on hand with a little bit of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any of the leftover honey glaze to roast. Vegetables that go well with this meal are small florets of broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, or a combination. Throw vegetables you are roasting on the same sheet pan as the salmon for easy clean up.

Want to watch this recipe in action?

Watch how to make this nut-crusted salmon on my featured virtual news segment for FOX31 Denver!

Can you use individual salmon filets?

Yes! You’ll follow the same instructions is using individual filets. This is perfect is making 1 to 2 smaller servings for a sheet pan dinner. Keep in mind, since these are smaller pieces, you may need to cook the salmon a couple minutes shorter to avoid overcooking.

Can you grill this salmon?

Yes! I’ve tested this salmon on the grill and it turns out great too! Here’s how to grill this nut-crusted salmon:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 400 degrees).
2. Brush a good amount of oil on the skin side of the salmon before placing on piece of foil. Make sure the foil is large enough to cover the salmon when wrapped.
3. Next, spoon over the glaze and press nuts on top of the skinless side of the salmon.
4. Then, wrap the salmon in the foil and place on the grill, skin side down.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Can you air fry this salmon?

I have tested this once and it worked pretty well! You can air fry at 400ºF for ~8 to 10 minutes.

What do I serve with salmon?

Pair this meal with roasted vegetables, brown rice, or a side salad for a balanced meal. I also like to squeeze lemons over the top of the salmon for an extra pop of flavor.

If you have leftover salmon, seal it up to heat up the next day or throw over some leafy greens for a protein-packed salad. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

If you’re wanting to make this recipe ahead of time, I recommend making the glaze and freezing in a small mason jar until you’re ready to make it. Then, all you have to do is thaw out the glaze, add it over your salmon with nuts, and bake to perfection. You can store the frozen honey dijon glaze for up to 4 months in the fridge.

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

Try these other healthy salmon recipes:

• Honey Soy Glazed Salmon
• Berry BBQ Salmon
• Salmon with Kale and Golden Beets
• Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Bang Bang Sauce

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