This baked salmon is a tasty catch! With a rich honey mustard sauce that’s buttery and sweet, it’s easy to see why everyone loves it. It’s perfect for any dinner table!
No need to worry if you’re not a chef—just pour that sauce over the salmon, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use frozen salmon fillets. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here, as it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a tangy kick to the sauce. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can work too, though the flavor will change slightly.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but maple syrup or agave syrup can serve as good substitutes if you want a vegan option or a different flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, but store-bought lemon juice works fine in a pinch. Lime juice can also be used for a different citrus twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but following a few easy tips can help! It’s all about the timing and temperature.
- Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. The right temperature keeps the salmon moist.
- Bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes. The general rule is about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
- Check for doneness: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest after baking. This helps the juices settle, making it more succulent when you cut into it.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes before you can dig into this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it using cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This helps prevent the salmon from sticking.
2. Season the Salmon:
Now, place your salmon fillets into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle them with a good amount of salt and pepper – this will enhance their flavor as they bake!
3. Make the Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce:
Next, take a small saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, stir in the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and minced garlic, whisking everything together until it’s well combined. Let it cook for another minute, just until it’s heated through.
4. Pour the Sauce Over the Salmon:
Pour your delicious buttery honey mustard sauce over the salmon fillets, making sure each one is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a colorful finish. Enjoy your rich baked salmon with that amazing buttery honey mustard sauce!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Fish for Salmon?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fish like trout, tilapia, or cod. Just adjust the baking time a bit as thinner fillets might cook faster compared to salmon. Keep an eye on them to ensure they flake easily!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Fat?
If you’re looking to cut down on fat, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil. It will still give a lovely flavor without the extra saturated fat. Use about 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a similar consistency in the sauce.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No problem! You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or even whole-grain mustard for a different flavor. If you opt for yellow mustard, just note that it will be slightly less tangy. Adjust the amount to your taste if needed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or bake it at a low temperature to prevent it from drying out. Add a little splash of lemon juice to freshen up the flavors!
