Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender, flaky salmon with a rich, tangy-sweet glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a healthy meal prep option, this dish offers a restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The buttery honey mustard sauce caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding a golden finish and bold flavor to every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletssalted butterDijon mustardhoneygarlic (minced)fresh lemon juicepaprikaonion powderfresh parsley (optional for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and onion powder. Stir until well combined and slightly thickened.

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the honey mustard sauce generously over each fillet, reserving some for later.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

If desired, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to caramelize the top.

Remove from the oven, spoon the reserved sauce over the salmon, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard for a rustic texture.

Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Top with toasted nuts like chopped pecans for added crunch.

Try with other fish like trout or cod.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain moistness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking.

Is the sauce overly sweet?

No, the mustard balances the sweetness for a tangy and rich flavor.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Absolutely, just brush with sauce and grill over medium heat until cooked through.

Do I need to remove the skin?

Not necessary. The skin helps keep the salmon moist during baking.

Can I use yellow mustard?

Dijon is preferred for depth, but yellow mustard can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the mustard used is certified gluten-free.

What sides go well with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store in the fridge and gently reheat before using.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild sweetness often appeals to kids.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s incredibly easy to make. With its sweet and tangy glaze, moist texture, and golden finish, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for busy nights or special dinners. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal in under 30 minutes.

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