baked Dijon salmon
This baked Dijon salmon is your new go-to for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner. Glazed with a zesty Dijon mustard and herb mixture, this juicy oven-baked salmon comes together in just 20 minutes. Ideal for weeknights or meal prepping!
Table of Contents
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Fuss-Free: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich in Omega‑3s: A heart‑healthy protein option.
- Bold Flavor: Tangy Dijon meets fresh herbs.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan, no mess.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or fresh)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or lemon wedges
🔪 Instructions: How to Make Baked Dijon Salmon
- Preheat Oven:
Set to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. - Make the Glaze:
In a bowl, mix mustard, olive oil, honey, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. - Glaze the Fillets:
Pat salmon dry. Place on baking sheet and brush generously with the Dijon glaze. - Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. (Check internal temp: 125–130 °F for medium.) - Serve:
Garnish with parsley or lemon slices and enjoy hot.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap fillets tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
✅ Pro Tips
- Use wild-caught salmon for richer flavor and better nutrition.
- Let the salmon sit at room temp for 10–15 mins before baking for even cooking.
- For a caramelized top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
🔄 Variations
- Add a teaspoon of whole grain mustard for texture.
- Swap thyme for fresh dill or tarragon.
- Mix in a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
📊 Nutrition Info (Per Fillet)
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 275 kcal | 15 g | 28 g | 3 g | 2 g |
🔗 Helpful External Resources
❓ FAQ: All About Baked Dijon Salmon
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry with paper towels before adding the Dijon mixture. Removing excess moisture helps the flavors stick and prevents steaming.
What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard or even regular yellow mustard in a pinch. However, Dijon offers a tangy sharpness that really complements the salmon’s richness.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly baked?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium or 145°F (63°C) for fully cooked. Avoid overbaking—salmon dries out quickly past its ideal temperature.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Simply use a dairy-free butter alternative or olive oil instead of butter in the Dijon mixture. The recipe will still be flavorful and moist.
What are the best side dishes to serve with baked Dijon salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, quinoa, or a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature or use a microwave on 50% power to avoid drying it out.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Definitely! You can make the Dijon-garlic marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply spread it over the salmon and bake as usual.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Baked Dijon salmon holds up well in the fridge and can be eaten warm or cold. It’s perfect for packing into lunch containers alongside veggies, rice, or salad for a nutritious, ready-to-go meal.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This baked Dijon salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with home-kitchen simplicity. Perfect for busy nights, healthy meal plans, or impressing guests with minimal effort.
👋 Welcome Message at the Bottom
Thanks for stopping by Homely’s Recipes! We hope this salmon recipe brings bold flavor and ease to your dinner table. Don’t forget to explore more healthy dishes and share your creations with us!
