Almond-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter: A Crunchy & Flavorful Keto Delight

This crispy almond-crusted salmon is the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal with a luxurious, buttery finish. Packed with healthy fats, omega-3s, and nutty crunch, this dish is both nutritious and restaurant-quality.

• Total Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

1. 2 salmon fillets (150 g each)
2. ½ cup (50 g) finely chopped almonds
3. 1 tbsp almond flour (for binding)
4. 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crisp)
5. ½ tsp garlic powder
6. ½ tsp paprika
7. ½ tsp salt
8. ¼ tsp black pepper
9. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for binding)
10. 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Additions:

1. ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (for spice)
2. ½ tsp dried oregano for extra depth
3. 1 tbsp crushed pork rinds for extra crunch

Substitutions:

• Dairy-free: Omit Parmesan and use ghee instead of butter.
• Nut-free: Use crushed pork rinds instead of almonds.
• Extra protein: Serve with a side of sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Almond Coating:
   • In a bowl, mix chopped almonds, almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the Salmon:
   • Pat salmon fillets dry and brush with Dijon mustard for binding.
   • Press the almond mixture firmly onto the salmon.
3. Sear the Salmon:
   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Place salmon fillets crust-side down and sear for 2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • Transfer salmon to a baking dish and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 8 minutes, until flaky.
5. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
   • In a small pan, melt butter over low heat.
   • Stir in lemon juice, zest, and garlic, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
   • Drizzle lemon butter sauce over salmon and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 38 g
• Fats: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g

Vitamins & Benefits

• Salmon: High in omega-3s for heart and brain health.
• Almonds: Provide vitamin E and healthy fats.
• Lemon Juice: Rich in vitamin C for immune support.

Did you know? Almonds help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), making them a heart-healthy alternative to breadcrumbs!

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes to retain crispness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the almond crust may lose its texture.

FAQ

❓ Can I air-fry this recipe?
✔️ Yes! Air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

❓ What sides pair well with this dish?
✔️ Try roasted asparagus, cauliflower rice, or a fresh arugula salad.

❓ How do I prevent the almond crust from falling off?
✔️ Press firmly and chill the coated salmon for 10 minutes before cooking.