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Walnut-Crusted Salmon

This elegant walnut-crusted salmon offers a sophisticated blend of textures and flavours, making it a standout choice for a nutritious midweek meal. The earthy, toasted notes of ground walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the rich, oily flakes of wild salmon. Infused with aromatic star anise and the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses, this dish brings a unique Middle Eastern-inspired twist to your dinner table.

As a heart-healthy main course, this recipe is naturally rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. The bed of thinly sliced daikon radish adds a mild, peppery bite and absorbs the savoury juices as the fish bakes. It is an excellent option for those seeking a gluten-free and refined sugar-free dinner that feels truly indulgent without being heavy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Walnut-Crusted Salmon

  • 2 (4-inch-long) daikon radishes, thinly sliced

  • Extra virgin olive oil

  • Dash of smoked salt

  • 2 wild salmon fillets, 6 to 230g each

  • 110g raw walnuts or pecans

  • 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses

  • 1 teaspoon ground anise seed or ground star anise

  • 3/4 teaspoons sea salt

  • Coriander, chopped, for garnish

How to make Walnut-Crusted Salmon

Place oven rack in the middle position and preheat oven to 177°C.

In a baking dish, toss the radishes with a drizzle of olive oil and smoked salt.

Place the salmon on top of the radishes, skin down.

Pulse the walnuts in a grinder until finely ground.

In a medium bowl, whisk molasses, anise seed, and salt to create a smooth glaze. Stir in the ground walnuts to form a thick paste.

Spoon the paste over the salmon, distributing it evenly.

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until the salmon easily flakes away when tested with a fork.

Place on serving plates and sprinkle with coriander.

Serve right away.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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