This honey mustard baked salmon is one of those recipes I like to make when I want something that feels a little special but is still incredibly easy. The salmon turns tender and flaky, and the sweet-and-tangy glaze adds so much flavor with very little effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients I usually already have. The honey mustard sauce balances sweetness and tang perfectly, and baking the salmon keeps it moist without much hands-on cooking. It’s a reliable dinner I enjoy making on busy weeknights or when I want a stress-free meal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
salmon fillets
honey
Dijon mustard
olive oil
garlic
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley
Directions
I start by preheating the oven and lining a baking dish or sheet pan. I place the salmon fillets in the dish, skin-side down.
In a small bowl, I mix the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. I spread this mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure each fillet is well coated. I season everything with salt and black pepper.
I bake the salmon until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Once it’s done, I like to garnish it with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 10 minutes.
Baking time is about 15 minutes.
Total time comes to roughly 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add a little whole-grain mustard for extra texture or a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth. When I want a citrusy twist, I mix in some orange zest. I also like brushing extra sauce on the salmon halfway through baking for a stronger glaze.
Storage/reheating
I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. I sometimes enjoy leftovers cold, flaked over a salad.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
I can use frozen salmon as long as I thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
I know the salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque in the center.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I usually prepare the sauce ahead of time, but I bake the salmon fresh for the best texture.
What sides go well with honey mustard salmon?
I like serving it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad.
Can I cook this salmon in foil?
I can bake the salmon in foil, which keeps it extra moist, but I like leaving it uncovered for a lightly caramelized top.
Conclusion
This honey mustard baked salmon is a recipe I turn to again and again because it’s easy, flavorful, and dependable. I enjoy how the simple glaze transforms the salmon into a satisfying meal that feels homemade and comforting every time.
Honey Mustard Baked Salmon
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Tender, flaky baked salmon coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, made with simple ingredients for an easy yet special weeknight dinner.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Place the salmon fillets in the dish, skin-side down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the honey mustard mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Brushing extra sauce halfway through baking enhances the glaze.
- Bake uncovered for light caramelization or cover with foil for extra moisture.
- Frozen salmon can be used if fully thawed and patted dry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
