Description
Tender, flaky salmon topped with a rich and tangy mustard sauce made with Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon, and a touch of honey or cream. This easy yet elegant dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Lemon slices (for serving)
For the Mustard Sauce:
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional for texture)
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup heavy cream (for creamy version)
OR 2 tablespoons olive oil (for lighter version)1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Option 1: Baked Salmon with Mustard Sauce
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until flaky and cooked through.
Option 2: Pan-Seared Salmon with Mustard Sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook 4–5 minutes. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Option 3: Salmon with Mustard Sauce Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook salmon for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, garlic, and lemon juice.
For a creamy mustard sauce for salmon, stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
For a simple mustard sauce for salmon, whisk ingredients together without cream and warm gently.
Season with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh parsley.
Spoon the warm mustard sauce over the cooked salmon. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Best mustard sauce for salmon: Use high-quality Dijon mustard for smooth texture and bold flavor.
- Sweet variation: Add extra honey for salmon with Dijon mustard and honey.
- Crispy top: Brush sauce on salmon before baking and broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Doneness tip: Salmon is ready when it flakes easily and reaches 125–145°F internally (depending on preference).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Dinner
- Method: Baked / Pan-Seared / Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American / European Inspired