Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Baked Lemon Dijon Salmon! With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, creating a mouthwatering dish that's as nutritious as it is flavorful. Perfectly flaky salmon fillets, seasoned to perfection, make for an irresistible meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to elevate your weeknight dinners with a touch of gourmet flair!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and develops a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended into a smooth marinade.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the marinade adhere better and promote even cooking.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin. Season each fillet with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using a brush or the back of a spoon, generously spread the Dijon lemon marinade over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the salmon in the oven. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is baking, you can prepare any side dishes or salads you’d like to serve with it. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad pair well with this dish.
- Once the salmon is done baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish the baked lemon Dijon salmon with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve the salmon immediately, either on its own or alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh salmon fillets. Look for bright, moist flesh and avoid any fish with a strong fishy smell.
- Marinate for More Flavor: If you have a little extra time, consider marinating the salmon in the Dijon lemon mixture for 30 minutes before baking. This will enhance the flavors even more!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for moist, flaky fish.
- Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the marinade, such as garlic, dill, or thyme, to personalize the flavor to your liking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each salmon fillet enough space on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and a nice, crispy exterior.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your salmon with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
