This oven-baked salmon is drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that makes it so tasty! The butter adds a nice richness, making each bite feel special.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up—just mix the sauce, spread it on the salmon, and let the oven do the rest. Perfect for when you want a yummy dinner with minimal fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is best, but you can use frozen fillets if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw them properly in the fridge before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil or avocado oil instead, which still gives great taste.
Dijon and whole grain mustard: Together they create a complex flavor. If you prefer milder mustard, you can use yellow mustard or even honey mustard. Just reduce the honey a bit if you do!
Honey: For sweetness, feel free to use maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re aiming for a vegan option. They work well with the mustard.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is nice for garnish. If you don’t have it, chopped green onions or dill provide a fresh touch as well.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! The key is to keep an eye on the cooking time. Salmon generally cooks for about 12-15 minutes in a 400°F oven, depending on thickness. Here’s how to check:
- Use a fork to gently pull the salmon apart. If it flakes easily, it’s done.
- A good rule of thumb is to cook about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
- For extra juicy salmon, consider pulling it from the oven just before it’s fully cooked. It will continue to cook from residual heat.
With these tips and adjustments, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious every time!
Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12–15 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at about 25–30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is great for cooking salmon evenly. While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to keep things easy to clean.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix until you have a smooth and well-blended sauce that smells amazing!
3. Prep the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and place them in the greased baking dish, skin side down if the skin is still on. Sprinkle a little salt and black pepper over them to give them some extra flavor.
4. Coat the Salmon:
Spoon the lovely honey mustard butter sauce over the top of each salmon fillet, making sure each one is well coated. You want as much of that delicious sauce on there as possible!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Put the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it, as cooking time can vary based on how thick your fillets are!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your salmon is cooked perfectly, take it out of the oven. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top and add fresh thyme sprigs if you like. This will give it a great touch and color!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious buttered honey mustard salmon immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the top before digging in. This dish goes great with steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon completely in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
Can I Substitute the Mustards?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a milder flavor, use all yellow mustard or honey mustard instead. Just adjust the amount of honey to balance the sweetness if you use honey mustard.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying it out.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Salmon?
This honey mustard salmon pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with rice or a light pasta dish, depending on your preference!