This Zesty Lemon Dijon Salmon is a flavorful dish that packs a punch! The bright lemon and tangy Dijon mustard bring out the best in fresh salmon, making it a tasty treat for any meal.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love to serve it with a side of veggies or rice. It’s quick, delicious, and always impresses guests. Plus, who can resist that lemony goodness? 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I love using fresh salmon fillets for their buttery texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use trout or even tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient brings a nice tanginess to the dish. If you don’t have Dijon, you can substitute with yellow mustard, but the flavor will be milder.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream like coconut cream. This might slightly change the flavor but will still be delicious!
Honey: If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar can work in its place, adding a sweet touch to your sauce!
How Can I Ensure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky! To avoid overcooking, use a few steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so the salmon cooks evenly.
- Searing the salmon first helps retain moisture. Aim for a golden-brown crust without cooking it through—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- When baking, check for doneness at 8 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork!
Remember, it’s better to slightly undercook salmon, as it will continue cooking a bit after you take it out of the oven. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Zesty Lemon Dijon Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional sides: cooked rice and roasted asparagus
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 5 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook, so the total time is around 15-17 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the salmon!
2. Season the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes a nice sear. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the fillets to your liking.
3. Sear the Salmon:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked through. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and heavy cream until smooth. This sauce is what gives the salmon its zesty kick!
5. Add the Sauce:
Pour the lemon Dijon sauce over the salmon fillets in the skillet. It might look a little messy, but that’s part of the flavor!
6. Garnish:
Top each fillet with a slice of lemon. This adds a lovely appearance and extra flavor while baking.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the salmon for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Final Touches:
When the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zesty lemon Dijon salmon right away with sides like steamed rice or roasted asparagus. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream for a slightly different flavor!
How Long Will Leftovers Keep in the Fridge?
Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lemon Dijon sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container and give it a good stir before pouring it over the salmon.
