Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon: A Simple and Elegant Recipe

Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be cooked in countless ways. Baking salmon fillets with a Dijon mustard glaze is a quick, easy, and elegant way to enjoy this delicious fish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s guaranteed to impress your family and guests.

## Why This Recipe Works

This baked salmon Dijon recipe is a winner for several reasons:

* **Simplicity:** It requires minimal ingredients and effort. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.
* **Flavor:** The Dijon mustard glaze creates a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory crust that perfectly complements the rich flavor of the salmon.
* **Speed:** Baking salmon fillets is a fast cooking method, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Health:** Salmon is naturally healthy, and baking minimizes the need for added fats.
* **Customizable:** The recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can add herbs, spices, or other flavorings to the glaze.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable baked salmon fillets:

* **Salmon Fillets:** Choose skin-on or skinless salmon fillets, about 6-8 ounces each. Skin-on fillets tend to be more flavorful and help keep the salmon moist during baking. Ensure the fillets are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Dijon mustard is the star of the glaze. Its sharp, tangy flavor balances the richness of the salmon. Use a good-quality Dijon mustard for the best results.
* **Olive Oil:** Olive oil adds moisture and richness to the glaze. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits.
* **Lemon Juice:** Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the glaze and adds a touch of acidity. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a savory depth to the glaze. Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch.
* **Honey (or Maple Syrup):** Honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the Dijon mustard. You can adjust the amount to your liking.
* **Fresh Herbs (Optional):** Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme add a fresh and aromatic touch to the salmon. Chop them finely and add them to the glaze or sprinkle them over the salmon before baking.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the salmon fillets and the glaze with salt and pepper to taste. Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are recommended.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking Sheet:** A baking sheet is essential for baking the salmon fillets. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
* **Small Bowl:** You’ll need a small bowl to whisk together the Dijon mustard glaze.
* **Whisk:** A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the glaze.
* **Pastry Brush (Optional):** A pastry brush can be used to evenly coat the salmon fillets with the glaze, but a spoon will also work.
* **Instant-Read Thermometer (Optional):** An instant-read thermometer is helpful for ensuring that the salmon is cooked to the correct internal temperature.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making baked salmon fillets Dijon:

**1. Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the salmon to cook quickly and evenly.

**2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier. Parchment paper is generally preferred as it’s more environmentally friendly.

**3. Prepare the Salmon Fillets:** Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help the glaze adhere better and prevent the salmon from steaming.

**4. Make the Dijon Mustard Glaze:** In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Adjust the amounts of honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to your taste. If using fresh herbs, stir them into the glaze as well.

**5. Glaze the Salmon Fillets:** Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or spoon the Dijon mustard glaze evenly over the top of each fillet, ensuring that they are fully coated. If using skin-on fillets, you can also brush a little glaze underneath the skin. This will help prevent the skin from sticking to the pan.

**6. Bake the Salmon Fillets:** Bake the salmon fillets in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. If using an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).

**7. Rest the Salmon (Optional):** Once the salmon is cooked, you can let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the salmon more tender.

**8. Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the baked salmon fillets Dijon immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. It pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a salad.

## Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon

* **Choose High-Quality Salmon:** The quality of your salmon will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Look for salmon that is bright in color, firm to the touch, and has a fresh, clean smell. Wild-caught salmon is generally considered to be more flavorful and nutritious than farmed salmon.
* **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. The key is to cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that the salmon is cooked to the correct internal temperature (145°F or 63°C).
* **Adjust the Glaze to Your Taste:** The Dijon mustard glaze can be easily customized to your preferences. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more honey or maple syrup. If you like a more tangy glaze, add more lemon juice. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh ingredients will always result in the best flavor. Use fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs whenever possible.
* **Line the Baking Sheet:** Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup easier.
* **Let the Salmon Rest (Optional):** Letting the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking will allow the juices to redistribute and make it more tender.

## Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

* **Honey-Garlic Glaze:** Substitute the Dijon mustard with an equal amount of soy sauce and add a tablespoon of grated ginger to the glaze for an Asian-inspired flavor.
* **Maple-Glazed Salmon:** Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer, more complex sweetness.
* **Herb-Crusted Salmon:** Mix chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, and thyme) with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the salmon fillets before baking.
* **Spicy Salmon:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
* **Lemon-Herb Salmon:** Omit the Dijon mustard and simply brush the salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs.
* **Gluten-Free:** This recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of your Dijon mustard and honey to ensure that they are gluten-free.
* **Dairy-Free:** This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
* **Keto-Friendly:** Substitute the honey or maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia. You may also need to adjust the amount of olive oil to increase the fat content.

## Serving Suggestions

Baked salmon fillets Dijon are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are a healthy and delicious accompaniment to salmon.
* **Rice or Quinoa:** Rice or quinoa is a hearty and satisfying side dish that complements the richness of the salmon.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with mixed greens, vegetables, and a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and light side dish.
* **Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potato Mash:** Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash are a comforting and flavorful side dish.
* **Couscous or Pasta:** Couscous or pasta tossed with vegetables and herbs is a flavorful and easy side dish.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

* **Prepare the Glaze:** The Dijon mustard glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using.
* **Marinate the Salmon:** You can marinate the salmon fillets in the Dijon mustard glaze for up to 30 minutes before baking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the salmon more deeply.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover baked salmon fillets Dijon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the salmon fillets in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon when reheating.
* **Freeze:** Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

* Calories: 300-400
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

## Conclusion

Baked salmon fillets Dijon is a simple, elegant, and healthy recipe that is perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dinner!

## Recipe Card

**Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon**

**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes
**Serves:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 4 Salmon Fillets (6-8 ounces each)
* 2 Tablespoons Dijon Mustard
* 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
* 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
* 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 Teaspoon Honey (or Maple Syrup)
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Fresh Herbs (Optional, such as dill or parsley), chopped

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
5. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush or spoon the Dijon mustard glaze evenly over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest the salmon for a few minutes before serving (optional).
9. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or red pepper flakes, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon!