Fried Lemon Pepper Salmon Sticks with Old Bay Blue Cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon Sticks:

Start by cutting your fresh salmon fillets into thin, bite-sized sticks. This will allow for an even, crispy coating and make them perfect for dipping.

2. Set Up a Dredging Station:

In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, lemon pepper seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoned dry mixture will give the salmon sticks their flavor-packed crust.

In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. This egg wash will help the dry mixture adhere to the salmon, creating that perfect crispy outer layer when fried.

3. Coat the Salmon:

Dip each salmon stick into the egg wash first, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture. Gently press the mixture onto the salmon to ensure an even coat. Repeat with each stick until all are coated.

4. Fry the Salmon Sticks:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when a small piece of batter dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.

Carefully add the salmon sticks to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the salmon sticks for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once fried, transfer the sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Make the Old Bay Blue Cheese Dip:

While the salmon sticks are frying, prepare the Old Bay blue cheese dip. In a medium bowl, combine the blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once your salmon sticks are perfectly crispy and golden, arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh lemon wedges. Serve with the creamy Old Bay blue cheese dip on the side for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of flour and cornmeal ensures a perfectly crispy texture, while the lemon pepper seasoning gives the salmon a bright, zesty flavor. The Old Bay seasoning adds depth, making each bite exciting and full of flavor.
• Easy to Make: While these salmon sticks might seem gourmet, the recipe is simple and quick to prepare. The ingredients are easy to find, and you can whip them up in less than 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or as a main course for dinner, these fried salmon sticks are versatile. They make for a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love, especially with the indulgent blue cheese dip on the side.
• A Twist on Classic Seafood Dips: The blue cheese dip is a delicious alternative to the typical tartar sauce or ranch. The addition of Old Bay and lemon juice complements the salmon perfectly, giving it an unexpected but mouthwatering kick.

Final Thoughts:

Fried Lemon Pepper Salmon Sticks with Old Bay Blue Cheese Dip are a true treat for the taste buds. With crispy, tender salmon, vibrant lemon pepper seasoning, and a rich, creamy dip, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Perfect for entertaining, a family dinner, or as a snack, these flavorful sticks will bring a little zest to your meal and leave everyone asking for more. So why wait? Get frying and start dipping!