The Perfect Baked Dijon Salmon Recipe for Flavorful Dinners

Salmon lovers rejoice as this baked dijon salmon recipe brings restaurant-quality seafood straight to your kitchen.

The tangy mustard glaze adds a delightful kick to every succulent bite.

dijon sharp, zesty notes perfectly complement the rich, tender fish.

Weeknight dinners just got an elegant upgrade with this simple yet impressive dish.

Fresh herbs and a quick marinade take this salmon from ordinary to extraordinary.

You’ll impress dinner guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become a go-to favorite for seafood enthusiasts.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Total Time: 22-25 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 5

Baked Dijon Salmon Ingredients Worth Savoring

• Salmon Fillets: Wild-caught varieties like King, Sockeye, or Coho offer the richest flavor and most omega-3 benefits, with options to keep skin on or remove based on personal preference.

• Dijon Mustard, Mayonnaise: Creamy combination creates a tangy, luxurious coating that helps seal in salmon's moisture and adds complex depth.
• Garlic: Aromatic powerhouse that infuses the fish with robust, earthy undertones and boosts overall taste profile.
• Fresh Dill, Parsley: Bright herbs introduce freshness and provide elegant green color while complementing the salmon's rich texture.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Citrusy elements cut through richness, tenderize the fish, and add vibrant, zesty notes.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Helps create golden, crispy exterior and ensures even cooking.
• Capers: Briny, salty gems that provide surprising bursts of flavor and sophisticated Mediterranean flair.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate and balance all other ingredients, ensuring well-rounded taste experience.

Tools That Bake Salmon with Ease

• Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting salmon evenly and keeping your oven clean.
• Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevents salmon from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Medium Bowl: Perfect for mixing the flavorful Dijon topping.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure ingredients like salt, pepper, and olive oil.
• Fork: Useful for checking salmon's doneness and flaking the fish.
• Zester or Grater: Helps create fresh lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Knife: Needed for chopping herbs and mincing garlic.
• Mixing Spoon or Whisk: Combines the Dijon topping ingredients smoothly.

Instructions for Salmon with a Tangy Finish

Tangy Salmon Sensation

• Oven Preparation Warm up the kitchen and get ready for a flavor explosion by setting the oven to a toasty temperature.
• Salmon Positioning Gently lay out the salmon on a lined baking sheet, skin facing down to capture all the delicious juices.
• Flavor Fusion Create a mouthwatering blend of creamy and zesty ingredients that will transform your fish into a culinary masterpiece.
• Topping Magic Generously coat the salmon with the vibrant mixture, ensuring every inch is covered in delectable goodness.
• Baking Brilliance Slide the tray into the hot oven and let the magic happen, watching the salmon transform into a golden, flaky delight.
• Serving Perfection Give the salmon a moment to rest, then plate it up alongside your favorite accompaniments for a meal that'll make taste buds dance.

Tips to Bring Out the Best Dijon Flavor

• Smart Seasoning Swaps: Try replacing Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard for a more textured, rustic flavor profile that adds delightful crunch and visual interest to your salmon.
• Herb Garden Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon instead of dill or parsley to create unique flavor combinations that complement the fish's natural richness.
• Spice Level Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the topping mixture for those who enjoy a subtle heat that elevates the overall taste without overwhelming the delicate salmon.
• Protein Pairing Perfection: Consider swapping salmon with other fish like halibut or cod, adjusting cooking times slightly to ensure the same tender, flaky texture and mouthwatering results.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the Dijon topping up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and intensify before spreading over the fish.

Serve Dijon Salmon with Greens or Grains

• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill or parsley on top of the salmon just before serving to add a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor that complements the Dijon coating.
• Citrus Zinger Plate: Serve alongside a quick lemon wedge or orange slice to let guests squeeze extra brightness over their salmon, enhancing the existing citrus notes in the dish.
• Elegant Accompaniment Combo: Pair the salmon with light sides like roasted asparagus, quinoa pilaf, or a crisp mixed green salad to create a balanced and sophisticated dinner plate that highlights the fish's rich Dijon flavor.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Select a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the tangy mustard and delicate salmon, creating a delightful dining experience that elevates the entire meal.

Save Your Fillets for Another Meal

• Fridge Fresh Storage: Wrap leftover salmon tightly in aluminum foil or sealed containers. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
• Smart Portion Planning: Prepare individual salmon fillets to match exact serving needs. This strategy reduces food waste and helps manage meal portions efficiently.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Cool salmon completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Frozen salmon maintains quality for up to 3 months when properly sealed and stored at 0°F.
• Reheating Magic: Gently warm leftover salmon in the oven at 275°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain moisture. Avoid microwave reheating, which can dry out the delicate fish texture and compromise flavor quality.

Creamy Baked Dijon Salmon Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 22-25 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Dijon salmon brings together tangy mustard and rich, flaky fish in a foolproof weeknight dinner. Crisp herb crust and zesty sauce elevate this simple protein for everyone’s palate.

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 lb (680 g) salmon fillets (King, Sockeye, or Coho, skin optional)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsps mayonnaise
• 2 tbsps capers
• ¼ cup fresh dill or parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Thermal Preparation: Position the oven rack centrally and preheat to a scorching 450°F, creating an ideal environment for salmon roasting.
2. Surface Preparation: Line a baking sheet with silicone mat or parchment paper, establishing a non-stick foundation that prevents delicate fish from clinging.
3. Flavor Composition: Whisk Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, seasoning, and capers into a vibrant, cohesive sauce that will elevate the salmon’s natural richness.
4. Salmon Coating: Nestle salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet, then lavishly brush the entire surface with the crafted Dijon mixture, ensuring comprehensive flavor coverage.
5. Culinary Transformation: Roast the salmon in the heated oven for 12-15 minutes, monitoring its progression until the fish gracefully flakes under gentle fork pressure, signaling perfect doneness.
6. Serving Presentation: After a brief resting period to redistribute internal moisture, plate the salmon alongside complementary accompaniments, transforming a simple dish into a gourmet experience.

Notes

• Precision Temperature Matters: High heat at 450°F ensures crispy exterior and tender salmon interior, so use an accurate oven thermometer for best results.
• Skin-Side Technique: Placing salmon skin-down helps protect delicate flesh from direct heat and creates a natural protective layer during cooking.
• Mustard Mixture Magic: Whisk ingredients thoroughly to create a uniform, flavorful coating that enhances salmon’s natural richness and prevents dryness.
• Resting is Crucial: Allowing salmon to rest 2-3 minutes after cooking helps retain juices, preventing dry and tough texture while maintaining optimal moisture and tenderness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg