I have to tell you about the Dijon baked salmon recipe I whipped up last night. It was flaky, flavorful, and had the perfect tangy topping that melted into the tender fish as it baked. I shared it with friends over a cozy dinner, and it disappeared from the table within minutes.
What’s even better? It’s so easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. You can also pair it with Mongolian beef for variety at the dinner table. By the end of this post, you’ll be looking forward to cooking (and devouring!) this satisfying dish.
Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine
This recipe is all about simplicity, but each ingredient plays a critical role. Choose fresh, high-quality items for best results.
- 1 ½ pounds salmon (King, Sockeye, or Coho works best): Opt for wild-caught salmon for its superior flavor and health benefits.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: This herb adds a fragrant, fresh punch to balance the richness of the fish.
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard: The zingy star ingredient that elevates the flavor profile of the entire dish. Avoid using yellow mustard as it won’t provide the same depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of citrus for brightness and a bit of tang.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Helps the topping adhere to the salmon while adding richness.
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced: A savory addition for some aromatic depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Note: This recipe serves 5 people, so adjust quantities as needed for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Salmon
Want to cater this recipe to your dietary needs or experiment with new flavors? Here are some easy tweaks:
- Dairy-Free: Luckily, this recipe is already dairy-free!
- Sugar-Free: No adjustments needed; it’s completely sugar-free as is.
- Flavor Boosters:
- Add a teaspoon of honey to the Dijon mixture for a delicate sweetness.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Herbal Twist:
- Swap parsley for dill or basil for an equally delicious twist.
- Use a blend of herbs like chives and thyme for a more layered flavor.
Pair it with vibrant vegetables or a unique option like chicken piccata for an unforgettable spread.
Quick and Easy Cook Time
Here’s how long this dish takes to hit your dinner table:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Essential Tools You’ll Need
Keep things simple with just a few kitchen staples:
- Baking sheet: For an even cooking surface.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Small mixing bowl: Perfect for blending the Dijon topping.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure precise ratios for flawless flavor.
- Knife and cutting board: Chop parsley and garlic with ease.
How to Make Dijon Baked Salmon
Making Dijon baked salmon is foolproof, and it only takes three straightforward steps. I’ll guide you from prep to plating with ease.
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Dijon Topping
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, combine parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture that’s bursting with aroma.
Step 2: Coat the Salmon Generously
Place your salmon fillet on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure that the coating adheres. Then, slather the Dijon mixture generously over the top of the fish, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Cook or Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The time will depend on the size and thickness of your salmon. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh easily flakes with a fork. Serve hot, dividing the fillets into individual portions.
Additional Tips to Perfect Your Recipe
Drawing from my own experience, these tips can take your Dijon baked salmon to the next level:
- Opt for Individual Fillets
If you’re serving guests, using individual portions instead of one large fillet speeds up serving times. - Try Slightly Underbaking
I like to take my salmon out of the oven slightly undercooked, as it will finish cooking with residual heat. It ensures moist, tender bites every time. - Skip the Foil
You really don’t need to cover the salmon with foil or parchment while it bakes. The Dijon topping locks in all the needed moisture.
How to Serve Dijon Baked Salmon
Elevate your presentation and enjoy this dish in multiple ways:
- Classic Plating
Serve the salmon alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes for a balanced plate. - Make it a Salad
Flake the salmon into smaller pieces and toss it with mixed greens, avocados, and a drizzle of homemade vinaigrette. - Add to a Grain Bowl
Layer your salmon over fluffy quinoa or brown rice, then toss in colorful veggies for a wholesome meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you get in every serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 13.5g
How to Store Dijon Baked Salmon
If you’ve got leftovers, here are the best storage tips:
- Refrigerate
Store salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Freeze
Wrap cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It stays good for up to 1 month. - Reheat
Warm leftovers gently in the oven or on the stovetop to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the salmon.
Check out the more dinner recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish has so much going for it! Here are a few reasons why it’s a winner:
- Quick and Easy
Prep and cook in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. - Healthy and Nutritious
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and the Dijon topping adds flavor without adding guilt. - Versatile for Occasions
Whether it’s a family dinner or a fancy date night, this recipe suits any setting. - Customizable Flavors
You can easily tweak it to align with your personal taste, from adding honey to experimenting with herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen fish holds more water, which may result in a less desirable texture.
Is Dijon mustard necessary?
Absolutely! It’s the backbone of the recipe and provides the tangy, creamy layer that makes this dish unique.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can substitute it with dried herbs, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, combine parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture that’s bursting with aroma.
- Place your salmon fillet on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure that the coating adheres. Then, slather the Dijon mixture generously over the top of the fish, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The time will depend on the size and thickness of your salmon. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh easily flakes with a fork. Serve hot, dividing the fillets into individual portions.