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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Thermal Preparation: Position the oven rack centrally and preheat to a scorching 450°F, creating an ideal environment for salmon roasting.
- Surface Preparation: Line a baking sheet with silicone mat or parchment paper, establishing a non-stick foundation that prevents delicate fish from clinging.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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