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If you’re craving something crispy, flavorful, and downright delightful, this Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinner needs. Combining tender, juicy salmon fillets with a golden, crunchy coating, these fish fingers are a brilliant twist on a classic favorite that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, paprika, and fresh parsley, they bring a wonderful balance of flavors that shine through every bite. Whether baked or pan-fried, this recipe is straightforward enough for any home cook but special enough to impress your family or guests with a little gourmet touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward recreating these irresistible salmon fish fingers. Each component plays a vital role: from the rich and tender salmon to the crunchy panko breadcrumbs that seal in moisture, every ingredient works in harmony to deliver that perfect texture and flavor combination.
- 2 salmon fillets (about 300g), skinless and boneless: Provides the luscious, omega-rich base of your fish fingers.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch): Adds that unbeatable crispy outer layer that keeps the bites exciting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings subtle nuttiness and depth of flavor to the coating.
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging): Helps the eggs stick to the fish perfectly, creating an even crust.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts like a glue for the breadcrumbs and seasoning to cling tightly to each piece.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Introduces a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory backbone for more flavor depth.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smoky kick and lovely color to your coating.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying: Perfect for frying to an irresistible golden finish or lightly drizzling if baking.
How to Make Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Salmon
Start by cutting your skinless, boneless salmon fillets into finger-sized pieces, roughly 2 to 3 inches in length. This size is ideal for handling and cooking evenly, ensuring every bite cooks perfectly and retains moisture inside.
Step 2: Set up Your Breading Stations
Arrange three shallow bowls to create a classic breading station: one with flour for dredging, the second with beaten eggs to coat the fish fingers, and the third with a delicious mix of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This triple-layer process is the trick to getting that satisfying crunch which defines the Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe.
Step 3: Bread the Salmon Fingers
Take each salmon piece and lightly coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered. This coating locks in moisture while creating that perfect crispy crust once cooked.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
You have two fantastic options to finish off these beauties: baking or frying. For baking, place the coated fish fingers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes until crisp and golden. If pan-frying, heat about two tablespoons of oil on medium heat and cook the fingers for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden crust and are cooked through inside.
How to Serve Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are a classic companion to salmon fish fingers, adding a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness beautifully. A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley on top brightens up the dish visually and in flavor, making every bite feel fresh and inviting.
Side Dishes
These fish fingers love company! Pair them with crispy homemade fries, a vibrant green salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes. A side of tangy tartar sauce or a cool cucumber yogurt dip brings a refreshing contrast that perfectly complements the crispy fish fingers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and casual meal, serve your Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe in soft brioche buns for delicious fish finger sandwiches, layered with lettuce and a smear of aioli. Alternatively, chop them up and toss over a crisp Caesar salad to add a crunchy, flavorful protein boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover fish fingers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing to maintain crunchiness during reheating.
Freezing
These fish fingers freeze beautifully! Arrange the breaded but uncooked fish fingers on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake or fry them straight from frozen, perfect for quick meals anytime.
Reheating
To bring back that irresistible crisp, reheat your leftover or frozen fish fingers in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before breading to achieve the best crunch and avoid sogginess during cooking.
Is baking healthier than frying for these fish fingers?
Yes, baking uses less oil, resulting in fewer calories and less fat, but both methods create deliciously crispy fish fingers. Baking can be a great go-to for a lighter meal.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, a hard cheese like Pecorino Romano works well, or you can omit the cheese altogether for a simpler breadcrumb coating.
Can I prepare these fish fingers gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap regular flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version of this Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe.
How do I tell when the salmon fish fingers are fully cooked?
Cooked fish fingers will have an opaque, flaky texture inside and a golden brown crust outside. The salmon should be moist but not raw or translucent in the center. Cooking times provided are a reliable guide.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe is such a fun, tasty way to bring something new to your dinner table without any fuss. Crispy, flavorful, and perfectly portioned, they make weeknight meals feel like a special treat. I can’t wait for you to give these a try and enjoy all the smiles they bring around the table!
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Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Halal
Description
These homemade salmon fish fingers are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried fish sticks. Coated with a crunchy panko breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, they are lightly seasoned with garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor. You can choose to either bake or pan-fry them for a crispy, golden finish. Perfect for a quick family meal or a snack served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Fish and Coating
- 2 salmon fillets (about 300g), skinless and boneless
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare for Cooking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if you decide to bake the fish fingers. Otherwise, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat for frying.
- Cut the Salmon: Slice the salmon fillets into finger-sized strips about 2-3 inches long to ensure even cooking and easy dipping.
- Set up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavorful coating.
- Coat the Salmon Fingers: Dredge each salmon piece first in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a crunchy crust.
- Cooking by Baking: Place the coated salmon fingers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the fingers are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cooking by Frying: Pour about 2 tablespoons of oil into the preheated skillet. Fry the salmon fingers over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the salmon fish fingers immediately while hot, accompanied by tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or your preferred dipping sauces for a perfect meal or snack.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs helps to achieve an extra crispy texture.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese if preferred.
- If baking, tossing the fish fingers lightly in oil before baking helps in crisping the crust.
- Ensure salmon pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- These fish fingers can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
