This Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon is a showstopper! With its sweet and tangy glaze, the salmon comes out moist and flaky every time. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you relax? I enjoy serving this with some steamed veggies. It looks fancy but takes hardly any effort to prepare! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal for its rich flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen salmon works too, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. I usually go for wild-caught salmon when available, as I find it tastes better.
Dijon mustard: This adds a nice tang to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, you can substitute it with yellow mustard. For a more unique twist, try using whole grain mustard.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness that complements the Dijon. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, maple syrup or agave nectar is a great substitute. I love using local honey for added flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a stronger taste, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. One clove of garlic equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Fresh parsley: This brightens up the dish! If fresh isn’t available, dried parsley can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. You can also substitute with fresh dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
How Can You Ensure Your Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
One common issue when cooking salmon is overcooking, which makes it dry. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Start checking around the 12-minute mark. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one! The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- For a touch of golden color, switch to broil for the last couple of minutes, but stay nearby to prevent burning.
These tips can help ensure your salmon remains moist and delicious. Happy cooking!
Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep. You’ll bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, depending on its thickness. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later.
2. Whisk the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper, then mix it all together until well combined. Trust me, this sauce is the magic ingredient!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and place them skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Using a spoon, drizzle that delicious butter honey mustard mixture evenly over each fillet so they are nicely coated.
4. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the tops of the salmon fillets. If you’d like a little kick, you can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. This adds a wonderful flavor!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary a bit, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you want a slightly crispy, caramelized top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish your salmon with lemon slices for that fresh touch. Serve immediately, making sure to spoon any of that buttery sauce from the dish over the salmon for extra flavor.
Enjoy your Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon! This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a fluffy rice, or a fresh green salad. Your taste buds will thank you!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the frozen salmon is completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, yellow mustard is a suitable substitute, though it will be milder. For a unique flavor twist, try using whole grain mustard instead!
How Do I Know When the Salmon is Done?
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or lemon juice to keep it moist.
