This zesty lemon Dijon salmon is a burst of flavor on your plate! With tangy lemon and a hint of mustard, it makes the salmon truly shine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix the sauce, brush it on the salmon, and bake. It’s a dish that feels fancy but takes hardly any time—great for impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or even chicken breasts for a different take. Both options provide a lovely flavor with the lemon and Dijon.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a nice tang. If you want a milder flavor, you can substitute with honey mustard or even plain yellow mustard, though it will alter the flavor a bit.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice is crucial for brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh is always better for taste. Consider using lime for a fun twist!
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a lovely herbal note. Feel free to use dried thyme if that’s all you have—just use half the amount, as dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
Green Beans: While they make for a great side, you can swap in asparagus or broccoli. Both pair well with salmon and can be quickly steamed or roasted alongside it.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting salmon just right can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure it’s moist and flaky without overcooking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat cooks the salmon quickly.
- Cook the salmon for 12-15 minutes depending on thickness. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- If your salmon has skin, cooking it skin-side down helps to keep it moist and makes for easy serving.
Follow these tips, and you’ll serve up perfectly cooked lemon Dijon salmon every time!
How to Make Zesty Lemon Dijon Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 lemon slices (for topping)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- Green beans (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook, so in total, you’re looking at 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil, or line it with foil for easier cleanup.
3. Make the Lemon Dijon Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is nicely combined.
4. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin-side down if they have skin. This helps keep the salmon moist while baking.
5. Coat the Salmon:
Using a spoon, generously spread the lemon Dijon mixture over the top and sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they’re well coated.
6. Add Lemon Slices:
Place a lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet for an extra pop of flavor and a nice presentation.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily when poked with a fork.
8. Prepare the Side:
If you’re serving with green beans, now’s the time to steam or sauté them for a quick and healthy side dish while the salmon bakes.
9. Serve Your Dish:
Once the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top if desired. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to drizzle any extra lemon Dijon sauce over the salmon!
Enjoy your bright and tangy Zesty Lemon Dijon Salmon, a delightful and healthy meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method.
Can I Substitute the Dijon Mustard?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use honey mustard for a sweeter flavor or regular yellow mustard for a milder taste. Keep in mind that it will slightly change the dish’s overall flavor profile.
How Do I Know When the Salmon Is Done Cooking?
The best way to check if salmon is done is to look for its color and texture. The flesh should be opaque and should flake easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While salmon is best when fresh, you can prepare the lemon Dijon sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just coat the salmon and bake it when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste!