Name: Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 6 oz skinless salmon fillets (Fresh or thawed); 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1.5 Tbsp Dijon mustard; 1.5 Tbsp honey; 1 tsp minced garlic ((1 clove)); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 2 tsp minced fresh parsley ((optional))

There’s something incredibly comforting about a beautifully baked salmon fillet, especially when it’s drizzled with a rich, buttery honey mustard sauce. This Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s an explosion of flavor that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for entertaining guests. With tender, flaky salmon, a luscious sauce, and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself returning to this dish again and again.

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about this Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce? First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates the salmon without overpowering its natural flavors. Plus, the buttery sauce gives it a rich finish that’s hard to resist. Whether you serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish is bound to impress.

Ingredient Notes

To create this delicious salmon dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets – Fresh or thawed, these fillets are the star of the show.
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted – This adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
1 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard – Provides a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.
1 1/2 Tbsp honey – The sweetness balances the savory elements perfectly.
1 tsp minced garlic (1 clove) – Adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning the salmon to taste.
2 tsp minced fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To prepare this Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Baking dish – A glass or ceramic dish works beautifully for even cooking.
Mixing bowl – For combining the sauce ingredients.
Whisk – To ensure the sauce is well blended.
Measuring spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Fish spatula – This will help in lifting the delicate salmon fillets without breaking them.

From Start to Finish: Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delightful dish!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your salmon will cook evenly and come out perfectly flaky.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until they are smooth and well blended. This sauce will not only flavor the salmon but also create a lovely glaze.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the fish.

Step 4: Drizzle the Sauce

Pour half of the buttery honey mustard sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Reserve the other half for later to drizzle on top after baking.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them!

Step 6: Finish with the Remaining Sauce

Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the remaining buttery honey mustard sauce over the fillets. If desired, sprinkle with minced fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Customize for Your Needs

This Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce recipe is versatile, allowing for several fun variations:

Spice it up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Add herbs – Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or tarragon for added flavor.
Switch up the sweetener – Try maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different sweet note.
Try different fish – Substitute salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia for a change of pace.

Testing Timeline

If you’re curious about the timing for this dish, here’s a quick breakdown:

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

This makes it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your leftovers fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you need to store it for longer, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through to prevent drying out.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking for even cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.

What should I serve with baked salmon?

This Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using it to ensure it’s well mixed.

How can I tell when the salmon is done?

The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer, you can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

The Last Word

This Baked Salmon with Buttery Honey Mustard Sauce is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying and full of flavor. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a dish that can easily fit into any busy lifestyle while still providing a gourmet experience.

Whether you’re treating yourself to a comforting meal or impressing guests for a special occasion, this salmon recipe is a guaranteed hit. With its delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy every delicious bite!