Coconut Crusted Salmon with Pineapple Salsa (Printer View)

Crispy coconut-panko crusted salmon topped with fresh, zesty pineapple salsa for a tropical main course.

# What you'll need:

→ For the Salmon & Coconut Crust

01 -
02 -
03 -
04 -
05 -
06 -
07 -
08 -

→ For the Pineapple Salsa

09 -
10 -
11 -
12 -
13 -
14 -
15 -

→ For Serving

16 -

# Method:

01 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
02 - In a shallow dish, combine shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs. In a separate dish, lightly beat the eggs. Dip each salmon fillet into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the coconut-panko mixture to coat all sides evenly.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Add lime juice, honey, and a pinch of sea salt. Toss gently and set aside to let flavors meld.
04 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. When oil shimmers, place coated salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden-brown. Flip fillets and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
05 - Remove salmon from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Plate salmon and top each fillet with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa. Garnish with lime wedges and a drizzle of pan juices, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crispy coconut crust creates this incredible texture contrast against the tender salmon that restaurant entrées always promise but rarely deliver
  • The pineapple salsa brightens everything with acidity and sweetness that cuts through the richness of the fish
  • It looks impressive but comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for dinner parties when you want to actually spend time with your guests
02 -
  • Do not skip the step of letting your salmon come to room temperature, or you will end up with overcooked edges and a raw center
  • The coconut crust goes from perfectly golden to burnt quickly, so keep a close eye during that first sear and adjust your heat if needed
03 -
  • Preheat your baking sheet in the oven while searing, then transfer the salmon to the hot sheet instead of using the skillet in the oven for even more consistent crisping
  • Toast your coconut and panko mixture in a dry pan for 2 minutes before coating for an extra nutty depth of flavor
Return