Easy Honey Mustard Roasted Salmon

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Honey Mustard Salmon is an easy weeknight dinner that’s bursting with flavor! Tender salmon fillets, coated in a sweet and savory honey mustard glaze, bake to perfection in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights! 

There's something special about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon—juicy, tender, and just the right amount of flaky. But let me tell you, when you add a luscious honey mustard glaze into the mix, it's game over. We're talking about a dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. 

This Honey Mustard Salmon recipe is one of those meals that feels like it took hours to create, but in reality, it’s the perfect quick fix for those hectic weeknights when you want a great dinner with minimal fuss.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within 30 minutes, you’re pulling out a sheet pan of glistening, golden salmon from the oven, the air filled with the mouthwatering scent of sweet honey and tangy mustard, with just a hint of garlic. It’s enough to make you feel like a culinary wizard, even if you’re just a regular person trying to survive the workweek.

Ingredients for Honey Mustard Salmon

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, juicy, and preferably with the skin on. The thickness of your salmon will determine cooking time, so keep that in mind.
• Whole Grain Mustard: Provides a lovely texture and a deep, robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey: Sweet, sticky, and essential for that glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top of the salmon.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon adds brightness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the honey.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that makes the dish feel like you’ve been slow-cooking it over an open fire.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: The basics that bring out all the other flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Large Rimmed Baking Sheet: For even cooking and easy clean-up.
• Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Keeps the fish from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the honey mustard sauce.
• Meat Thermometer: Optional, but handy to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection.

How to Make Honey Mustard Salmon

This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, making it perfect for even the busiest of weeknights.

1. Preheat the Oven: Crank up your oven to 425°F and get it nice and hot.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the whole grain mustard, honey, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens—the sauce should be thick and luscious, ready to coat your salmon.

1. Prepare the Salmon: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and lay out the salmon fillets skin-side down. This helps the skin crisp up and makes the fish easier to remove after cooking.
2. Add the Sauce: Spoon the honey mustard sauce generously over each piece of salmon. Spread it evenly, making sure every inch is covered.

1. Bake: Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 14-15 minutes. The salmon should be nearly cooked through but not quite.
2. Broil: Switch the oven to broil, and return the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step caramelizes the honey mustard glaze, giving it that irresistible golden crust.
3. Rest: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

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Chef Secrets for Perfect Honey Mustard Salmon

• Room Temperature Salmon: Let your salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
• Thickness Matters: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon. Thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
• Don't Overcook: Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough. A meat thermometer is your friend here—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Broil with Care: Keep a close eye on the salmon during broiling. It can go from beautifully caramelized to burnt in seconds.

Serving Suggestions

This Honey Mustard Salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the fish shine:

• Green Butter Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed with garlic for a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Green Salad with Mandarin Oranges: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
• Crispy Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these are the perfect starchy sidekick.
• Quinoa or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use Dijon mustard instead of whole grain mustard?

​A: Absolutely! Dijon mustard has a smoother texture and a slightly different flavor, but it works wonderfully in this recipe.

Q: How can I tell when the salmon is done?

​A: The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Q: Can I make this recipe with frozen salmon?

​A: Yes, but be sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even baking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Storing: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet, cover it loosely with aluminum foil, and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps retain moisture and prevents the fish from drying out.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Great food doesn’t have to be complicated. So, go ahead and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

More Easy Weeknight Meal Recipes

• Hibachi Style Fried Rice
• Classic Crunchy Beef Tacos
• Roasted Sticky Miso Chicken Thighs
• Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni