If you’re craving a delightful, crispy, and wholesome snack or meal, this Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of fresh salmon, coated in a golden, flavorful crust made from crunchy panko breadcrumbs and savory Parmesan cheese, all seasoned just right to make every bite irresistible. Not only are these fish fingers full of vibrant color and mouthwatering texture, but they’re quick to prepare and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll never look back at store-bought fish fingers again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and carefully chosen ingredients come together in this recipe to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each element, from the flaky salmon to the aromatic herbs and spices, plays an essential role in delivering that perfect balance of taste, crunch, and color.
- Salmon fillets (about 300g): Skinless and boneless for easy cutting into finger-sized pieces and the best tender texture.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): These give a wonderfully light and crunchy coating that’s crucial for that perfect crispy bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a hint of savory richness and deepens the crust’s flavor complexity.
- Flour (1/4 cup): Used for dredging to help the egg wash and coating stick beautifully to the salmon.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Serve as the adhesive layer between the flour and breadcrumb coats.
- Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): Brings a fresh, green bite and subtle herbiness to lift the flavors.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses the coating with a warm, aromatic undertone.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Offers a gentle smokiness and vibrant red hue.
- Salt and pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all the other ingredients.
- Olive oil or vegetable oil: For frying—or drizzling if baking—to achieve that desirable golden crust.
How to Make Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re opting to bake, or warm up a non-stick skillet over medium heat for frying. This makes sure your salmon fingers cook evenly and reach that perfect crispy finish.
Step 2: Cut the Salmon
Take your skinless, boneless salmon fillets and cut them into finger-sized pieces, roughly 2 to 3 inches long. This size ensures each piece cooks quickly and evenly while remaining tender inside.
Step 3: Set Up Your Coating Stations
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour for dredging, the second with the beaten eggs, and the third with the breadcrumb mixture. To make the breadcrumb blend, combine the panko, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This layered approach ensures a beautifully even and flavorful coating on every fish finger.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon Fingers
Take each salmon piece and dredge it lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. This triple coating promises maximum crunch and flavor.
Step 5: Cook Your Fish Fingers
If baking, arrange the coated pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over them to help achieve that golden color and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until cooked through and crisp. If frying, heat about two tablespoons of oil in your skillet over medium heat. Fry each fish finger for around 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked inside. Drain on paper towels to keep them crisp and oil-free.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delectable homemade salmon fish fingers hot and fresh. Their irresistible aroma and crunchy texture make them perfect as they are or paired with your favorite dips.
How to Serve Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, zesty lift, garnish your salmon fish fingers with lemon wedges. A scatter of extra chopped parsley not only adds beautiful color but also enhances their herbal freshness.
Side Dishes
These fingers shine alongside crisp coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or a tangy tartar sauce. For a lighter option, consider a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, which complement the richness of the salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your meal exciting by serving your salmon fish fingers as sliders using mini burger buns and a dollop of aioli. Another fun approach is offering a build-your-own platter with varied dipping sauces and crunchy veggie sticks, perfect for entertaining or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon fish fingers can be carefully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to keep their texture intact.
Freezing
This Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe also freezes wonderfully. After coating but before cooking, place the uncooked fingers on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and cook straight from frozen—adding a few extra minutes to your baking or frying time.
Reheating
To keep the crispy coating, reheat your fish fingers in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This method revives their crunch while warming the salmon inside just right.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works fine as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before preparing. This ensures your coating sticks well and cooks evenly.
Is it better to bake or fry these salmon fish fingers?
Both methods are delicious! Baking is a healthier option and easier to manage for large batches, while frying gives an extra crispy, golden exterior. Choose based on your preference and available time.
What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these fish fingers?
Tartar sauce, a tangy lemon aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all complement the salmon’s flavors beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite condiments!
Can I add other herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mix?
Absolutely! Dill, chives, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add exciting new layers of flavor. Personalizing the mix is part of the fun with this recipe.
How do I ensure the fish fingers stay crispy after cooking?
After frying, let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. If baking, a light drizzle of oil and proper oven temperature help maintain crispiness. Reheating in an oven or air fryer also keeps them crunchy.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser, blending healthy ingredients with exciting flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack for guests, these fish fingers deliver that crispy, juicy perfection every time. Give it a try and share the joy of this simple yet stunning dish with your loved ones—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Western
Description
These Homemade Salmon Fish Fingers are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, made with fresh salmon fillets coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and spices. Perfectly cooked either baked or fried, they make a delightful and healthy twist on a classic comfort food favorite, ideal for family dinners or quick snacks.
Ingredients
Salmon Fish Fingers
- 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
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare to cook: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you choose to bake, or heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat for frying. This ensures the right temperature for even cooking.
- Cut the salmon: Slice the salmon fillets into finger-sized pieces, approximately 2 to 3 inches long, perfect for hand-held bites.
- Prepare coating stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a breadcrumb mixture combined with Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the salmon fingers: Dredge each salmon piece first in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture ensuring a thorough coating on all sides.
- Cook by baking (optional): Arrange the coated fish fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden and fully cooked through.
- Cook by frying (optional): Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Fry the salmon fingers for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a crispy golden crust and are cooked inside. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy the salmon fish fingers hot with tartar sauce, fresh lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- For extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended.
- You can freeze uncooked, coated fish fingers for later use; freeze individually on a tray before storing together.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on your preference.
- To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.
- Baking offers a healthier alternative to frying and still yields crispy fish fingers.
