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Coconut-Crusted Salmon with Fresh Pineapple Salsa Recipe

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4.4 from 8 reviews

This Coconut Crusted Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets coated in a crispy blend of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, paired perfectly with a fresh and zesty pineapple salsa. Prepared either by baking or frying, this dish offers a delightful combination of tropical flavors and textures, making it an impressive and delicious meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Salmon and Breading

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or olive oil for baking)

Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Preheat the Oven or Skillet: If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If frying, preheat a skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
  3. Prepare the Breading: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Bread the Salmon: Dredge each salmon fillet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the whisked eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Coat the fillets in the coconut and panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Cook the Salmon: For baking, place the breaded salmon on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and golden. For frying, cook the fillets in the preheated skillet for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Serve: Plate the coconut crusted salmon fillets and top generously with the pineapple salsa. Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • You can use olive oil instead of coconut oil for a different flavor profile when baking.
  • Make sure to press the coconut mixture firmly onto the salmon to ensure a crispy crust.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the salsa depending on your spice preference.
  • Leftover salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Check the salmon for doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork.