Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Mustard Salmon is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that pairs the rich, buttery taste of salmon with the tangy sweetness of a honey mustard glaze. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for entertaining. The caramelized glaze adds a deliciously sticky finish that complements the tender, flaky fish perfectly.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)Dijon mustardhoneygarlic (minced)olive oilsaltblack pepperlemon juicefresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable.

Brush or spoon the honey mustard mixture generously over the top of each fillet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to caramelize the glaze slightly.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 22-25 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitute whole grain mustard for added texture.

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, earthy sweetness.

Top with toasted almonds or crushed walnuts for crunch.

Serve over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place salmon in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave on low power in 30-second intervals until warm.Avoid overcooking to maintain the fish’s tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Absolutely, grill on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mustard and check all ingredient labels.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

What sides go well with Honey Mustard Salmon?

Roasted vegetables, rice, couscous, or a green salad pair beautifully.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork; internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Do I need to marinate the salmon?

No, the glaze works best when applied just before baking.

Can I cook this in a skillet?

Yes, cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes per side, adding the glaze toward the end.

What type of honey is best?

Use any mild, good-quality honey—clover or wildflower honey work well.

Can I freeze cooked salmon?

Yes, let it cool, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Salmon is a deliciously simple way to elevate your dinner routine. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors with tender, flaky salmon makes this a standout dish that’s sure to become a regular favorite. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this quick and tasty recipe delivers every time.