Get ready to transform your dinner game with the most mouthwatering Honey Dijon Baked Salmon that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This incredibly simple yet elegant recipe proves that gourmet cooking doesn't have to be complicated. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's bursting with sweet, tangy flavors and perfectly cooked, flaky salmon that practically melts in your mouth.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures a crisp exterior.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the honey Dijon mixture generously over the top and sides of each fillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Allow the salmon to marinate for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and optionally sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley before serving.
Tips
- Always pat your salmon fillets completely dry before marinating to ensure the honey Dijon glaze sticks perfectly and creates a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness - salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C), which prevents overcooking and keeps the fish tender and juicy.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the marinade for a deeper, more complex taste profile.
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with vibrant color and minimal browning for the best results.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor in every bite.
- If you prefer a more intense glaze, you can reduce the honey Dijon mixture in a small saucepan before brushing it onto the salmon for a more concentrated flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
