Pecan-Crusted Trout is an elegant yet simple dish featuring tender steelhead trout fillets coated with a creamy honey mustard sauce and a crunchy pecan-panko topping. Paired with thyme-roasted potato rounds and a fresh salad of mixed greens and apple slices, this recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a quick dinner option that feels like a gourmet meal, ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Trout:

2 steelhead trout fillets (6–8 oz each)
½ cup pecans, finely chopped
⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey mustard

For the Potatoes:

12 oz baby potatoes, thinly sliced into rounds
1 teaspoon olive oil
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

2 cups mixed greens
1 small apple, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the potato slices with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Make the Pecan Topping:
- In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, fresh thyme, and melted butter until well combined.
Prepare the Trout:
- Place the trout fillets on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Brush each fillet with honey mustard, then press the pecan mixture evenly onto the top of the fillets.
Bake the Trout:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven alongside the potatoes. Bake the trout for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden.
Prepare the Salad:
- Toss the mixed greens and apple slices with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Serve:
- Plate the pecan-crusted trout with a side of roasted potatoes and apple salad. Serve immediately.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 portion (out of 2 servings)
Calories: ~550 kcal
Nutritional Breakdown:
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 520mg

Pecan-Crusted Trout is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines rich flavors with fresh, healthy ingredients. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home, this recipe is a must-try!

Why Pecan-Crusted Trout is a Standout Dish

A Balance of Textures and Flavors

This dish excels at delivering a harmonious combination of textures and flavors. The flaky trout contrasts with the crisp, buttery pecan-panko crust, while the honey mustard glaze introduces a touch of tangy sweetness. Paired with crispy roasted potatoes and a vibrant salad, the meal feels balanced and satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

Steelhead trout is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins. Combined with heart-healthy pecans, fiber-rich potatoes, and fresh greens, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Versatility

The recipe can easily be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance:

Swap the trout: Substitute salmon or another firm, flaky fish.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the topping.
Enhance the salad: Add goat cheese, walnuts, or dried cranberries to the apple salad for extra flavor and texture.

Key Ingredients that Elevate the Dish

Steelhead Trout

Steelhead trout is prized for its mild, buttery flavor and tender texture. Its ability to pair well with a wide range of seasonings makes it an ideal canvas for the pecan-panko crust.

Pecans and Panko Breadcrumbs

The topping is a standout feature of this dish, offering a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The pecans add a natural richness, while the panko breadcrumbs ensure a light, crispy texture.

Honey Mustard Glaze

The honey mustard acts as a flavor enhancer and a binder for the crust. Its tangy-sweet profile complements the fish and brings a bright note to the dish.

Thyme-Roasted Potatoes

The thinly sliced baby potatoes roast to golden perfection, absorbing the earthy flavor of fresh thyme. These crispy rounds serve as a hearty and comforting side dish.

Apple and Greens Salad

The fresh, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the trout and potatoes. The apple slices add sweetness, while a light apple cider vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy finish.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pecan-Crusted Trout

1. Use Fresh Fish

For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh trout fillets. Ensure they are deboned and of even thickness for consistent cooking.

2. Toast the Pecan Topping

For an even nuttier flavor, consider lightly toasting the pecans before mixing them with the breadcrumbs and butter.

3. Avoid Overcooking

Fish is best when cooked just until it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the fillets while they bake to ensure they stay moist and tender.

4. Crisp the Topping

If the topping isn’t golden enough by the end of baking, briefly broil the trout to achieve a perfectly crisp crust.

5. Customize the Potatoes

Feel free to add other seasonings or spices to the potatoes, such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, or grated Parmesan, to suit your taste.

6. Enhance the Salad

Experiment with additional ingredients like toasted nuts, cheese, or dried fruit to add complexity to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a Light White Wine

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty trout and fresh salad. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of citrus is a refreshing choice.

Add a Sauce

While the trout is flavorful on its own, a light drizzle of lemon-butter sauce or a dollop of yogurt-based herb dressing can elevate the dish even further.

Include a Bread Option

A side of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls can round out the meal, perfect for sopping up any leftover flavors from the plate.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

Ideal for Weeknight Dinners

With a total cook time of under 45 minutes, Pecan-Crusted Trout is a great choice for busy evenings. The minimal prep work and simple baking process make it easy to whip up without much effort.

Sophisticated for Entertaining

This dish’s elegant presentation and gourmet flavors make it suitable for hosting. Your guests will be impressed by the thoughtful combination of textures and flavors.

Nutritious and Satisfying

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this recipe offers a well-rounded meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a wholesome option for those who want to enjoy a delicious dinner while maintaining a balanced diet.

Leftovers That Shine

If you have leftovers, the trout can be flaked into salads or used in wraps for a tasty lunch the next day. The pecan topping retains its crunch, and the flavors deepen overnight.

Health Benefits of Pecan-Crusted Trout

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Steelhead trout is an excellent source of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health.
Heart-Healthy Pecans: Pecans are packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
Fiber-Rich Potatoes and Greens: The combination of roasted potatoes and mixed greens provides fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Low in Calories: Despite its rich flavors, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Conclusion: An Effortless Gourmet Experience

Pecan-Crusted Trout is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of tender trout, crunchy pecan topping, crispy potatoes, and a refreshing salad creates a harmonious balance that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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