This buttered honey mustard oven salmon is quick and tasty! With a perfect blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard, it brings a smile to your dinner table.
I love how easy it is to make—just mix, spread, and bake! Plus, the smell wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone hungry. Yum! 🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen fillets, just be sure to thaw them completely. Personally, I think wild-caught salmon offers a richer taste.
Dijon Mustard: This mustard adds a nice tang to the dish. If you want a milder taste, you can swap it for yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a different texture.
Honey: Honey gives the dish a sweet balance. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option. It still brings that sweetness without the honey.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, olive oil can work, though it changes the flavor slightly.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is key for a pop of color and freshness. You can replace it with other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro, depending on your taste preference.
How Do I Prevent Salmon from Overcooking?
One common struggle when preparing salmon is overcooking. The key is to keep an eye on the timing and thickness. Salmon cooks quickly at high temperatures, so checking it early is essential.
- Start checking the fish at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Look for the salmon to change from translucent to opaque and the flesh should easily flake with a fork.
- If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Following these tips will ensure your salmon comes out perfectly moist and delicious every time! Enjoy cooking this simple yet delightful dish!
Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious option for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps cook the salmon quickly, keeping it moist and full of flavor. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Next, take your salmon fillets out and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture. Season them generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended. This glaze is what gives the salmon its delicious flavor.
4. Coat the Salmon
Now, place the salmon fillets into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the honey mustard mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they are well coated to soak up all that great flavor.
5. Bake the Salmon
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the salmon cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye out; the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your fillets.
6. Add the Final Touches
Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle any extra sauce from the baking dish over the fish to give it even more taste and moisture.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the salmon immediately with your choice of sides, like steamed vegetables, rice, or potatoes. You’re in for a treat with this delightful dish!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful salmon with a luscious buttery honey mustard glaze that will surely impress. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to completely thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or to seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a few hours.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No problem! You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard for a milder flavor or use whole grain mustard for a different texture. Both options will still work well in this recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers to the baking dish will create a complete meal. Just make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes and adjust the baking time slightly if needed, to ensure everything cooks evenly.
