This Honey Mustard Salmon is the answer to your busy weeknight dinner prayers. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and on the table in just 20 minutes. The simple honey mustard glaze creates a perfectly caramelized crust while keeping the salmon unbelievably moist and tender. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner!
We’re combining the sweet nectar of honey with the tangy punch of Dijon mustard, a classic pairing that was destined for salmon. A touch of garlic and lemon brightens everything up, creating a sauce so good you’ll want to put it on everything. This is a healthy salmon recipe that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Honey Mustard Salmon
- Incredibly Fast: From prep to plate in 20 minutes flat, making it the ultimate weeknight hero.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need 5 simple pantry staples to create the delicious honey mustard glaze for salmon.
- Healthy & Delicious: Rich in Omega-3s and protein, this dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful.
- Foolproof: This simple salmon recipe is perfect for beginners. Our tips guarantee perfectly flaky, never-dry salmon every single time.
The 5 Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s all you need:
- Salmon Fillets: The star of the show. You can use skin-on or skinless fillets, about 6 ounces each.
- Honey: Provides that wonderful sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy, complex flavor that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for a robust flavor.
- Olive Oil: Helps bind the sauce and keeps the salmon moist.
How to Make Honey Mustard Salmon (Step-by-Step)
Making this baked honey mustard salmon couldn’t be easier. Just follow these simple steps.
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel; this is crucial for getting a nice sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth. This is your flavor-packed honey mustard glaze.
- Glaze the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon about three-quarters of the honey mustard glaze evenly over the top of the fillets.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Final Touch: For a beautiful, caramelized top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning! Let it rest for a minute, then serve with the remaining glaze spooned over the top.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Salmon
Tired of dry, overcooked salmon? Follow these tips for a perfect result every time.
- Don’t Overbake: This is the number one rule! Salmon cooks quickly. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark. It should be slightly opaque in the center and flake easily. An instant-read thermometer should register 135-140°F in the thickest part.
- Pat It Dry: Removing excess moisture from the surface of the fish allows the glaze to adhere better and the edges to crisp up nicely.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup an absolute breeze. The caramelized honey can be tough to scrub off!
What to Serve with Honey Mustard Salmon
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Keep it simple and healthy with Perfectly Roasted Cauliflower (coming soon) or steamed asparagus. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or a bed of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs (coming soon). A simple Apple Arugula Salad (coming soon) also makes a refreshing and light accompaniment.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Add a Little Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha in the glaze adds a nice kick.
- Try Different Mustards: Whole grain mustard can add a lovely texture, while a spicy brown mustard will give it more heat.
- Herb It Up: Add fresh chopped dill or parsley to the glaze for a fresh, herbaceous note.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftover honey mustard salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to use the oven or a toaster oven set to a low temperature (around 275°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This gentle heating method helps prevent it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the glazed salmon in the basket and cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. You’ll get a beautifully crisp exterior.
The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer. If you don’t have one, you can check visually. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily when gently pressed with a fork.
This salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a fresh green salad, quinoa, rice pilaf, or creamy mashed potatoes. The options are endless!
Dijon mustard is the best choice for this recipe as it provides a perfect tangy and sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey. However, you can also use whole grain mustard for a different texture or spicy brown mustard for an extra kick.
For best results, bake your salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). For doneness, the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 135-140°F (57-60°C) in the thickest part.
More Delicious Dinner Recipes
If you enjoyed this simple salmon recipe, you might also love our Easy Pesto Salmon (coming soon) or these fantastic Chicken Street Tacos. They are both quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week.
We hope you love this easy Honey Mustard Salmon recipe! If you make it, please feel free to leave a comment and rating below. We love hearing from you! For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.
Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe
Honey Mustard Salmon (Easy, 20-Minute Recipe!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until the glaze is smooth.
- Spoon about three-quarters of the honey mustard glaze over the salmon fillets, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For extra caramelization, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
- Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving. Drizzle with the remaining glaze if desired.
Notes
Tip 2: For easy cleanup, do not skip the parchment paper. The caramelized honey can be difficult to clean.
Tip 3: Patting the salmon dry before seasoning ensures the glaze sticks and the edges get nicely browned.
