Pistachio Crusted Salmon is one of the juiciest salmon recipes you can make at home. Bright lemon, fresh dill and a crunchy pistachio crust combine to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

(Images and post updated January 2023)
This pistachio crusted salmon reliably produces tender, slightly pink fillets with a crisp, nutty topping. The balance of sweet brown sugar, citrusy lemon, and fragrant dill makes it a crowd-pleaser and a great choice for dinners when you want something special without fuss.

The pistachio crumb gives a wonderful texture contrast to the moist salmon. Depending on how you chop the nuts—coarsely or more finely—you can vary the crunch while keeping the bright flavors intact.

Seafood can be pricey in many regions, but when you do buy salmon, this recipe is an excellent way to showcase the fish. It works well for weeknight meals and also for more formal dinners—serve it with simple sides so the salmon remains the star.

Here is a quick glance at the ingredients to make Pistachio Crusted Salmon :
(scroll down for the full printable recipe card)
- 6 x 100 grams salmon fillets (3.5 oz each)
- 1 cup pistachio nuts, chopped coarsely or finely—your preference
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed preferred
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly milled
- Lemon wedges to serve (optional)

More easy seafood and fish dinners you might like:
- Easy Lemon and Onion Fish
- Smothered Fish (Fish Mornay)
- Smoked Haddock Mac and Cheese
- Shrimp Creole (Slow-Cooker)
- Red Prawns and Mussels
Pistachio Crusted Salmon
Pistachio Crusted Salmon
Linda Nortje
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Ingredients
- 6 x 100 grams salmon fillets (3.5 oz each)
- 1 cup pistachio nuts, chopped coarsely
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly milled
- Lemon wedges to serve (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (440°F). Lightly spray or oil an oven-safe dish.
- Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer in the dish.
- Combine the pistachios, brown sugar, lemon juice, dill and black pepper. Spoon the mixture over each fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
- Bake, uncovered, for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily and is slightly pink in the center.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Nutrition values are approximate; check ingredient labels for exact information.
Serve the pistachio crusted salmon with simple side salads or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and let the salmon shine.