Dijon Baked Salmon That Tastes Like You Actually Tried
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Remove salmon from the fridge 10 minutes before cooking and let it sit at room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels, then place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the mustard mixture evenly over each fillet. Press breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the coating looks set and slightly golden at the edges.
- Rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Top with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before adding the mustard coating — this is the single most important step for getting a good texture. Wet fish steams in the oven and you lose the slightly set, flavorful crust that makes this recipe worth making.