Description
This isn’t just another honey mustard salmon recipe. Picture this: tender, flaky salmon fillets bathed in a sweet and tangy glaze with a surprising citrusy kick. This recipe takes the classic honey mustard combo and elevates it with a touch of orange zest and juice, adding a bright, fresh flavor that will make your taste buds sing. It is so good! Get ready for a simple, yet impressive, dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Pastry brush (optional)
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional, for added texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place a rack in the middle position, and set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will save you from some serious scrubbing later.
- Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. Sprinkle the fillets all over with the measured salt and pepper.
- Time for the star of the show, the glaze! In a small bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), olive oil, minced garlic, orange zest, orange juice, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until it’s all smooth and combined.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Generously brush the tops and sides of the salmon with about half of your amazing honey mustard glaze.
- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of baking, brush the salmon with the remaining glaze. This will give it a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Once cooked, take the salmon out of the oven. You can serve it right away while it is still hot.
Notes
- The Orange Twist: Most honey mustard salmon recipes stick to the basics. Adding orange zest and juice gives this glaze a unique, bright, and slightly tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the salmon. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in taste, setting this recipe apart.
- Skin-On or Skin-Off: You can use either skin-on or skin-off salmon for this recipe. If using skin-on, consider pan-searing the salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet for a few minutes before baking to get that skin nice and crispy.
- Doneness: The best way to check if your salmon is cooked is to use a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s done. You can also use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or mustard to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more honey. If you like it tangier, add more mustard.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g