Looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner? This Baked Dijon Salmon is the perfect choice! With a crispy mustard-pecan crust and tender, flaky salmon inside, this dish is packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend meal.
Imagine biting into a golden-brown crust infused with tangy Dijon mustard, a touch of honey, and the nutty crunch of pecans. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy salmon, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
To create this delicious Baked Dijon Salmon, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect, crispy crust every time.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1½ tbsp honey
- ¼ cup dry bread crumbs
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans
- 4 tsp chopped fresh parsley
- 4 (4-oz) salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, for garnish
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey-Mustard Mixture
Next, in a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir well until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Breadcrumb Topping
After that, in another bowl, mix the dry bread crumbs, chopped pecans, and fresh parsley. This will create the perfect crunchy topping for the salmon.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon
Then, brush each salmon fillet lightly with the honey-mustard mixture, making sure to coat the top evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over each fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Next, transfer the coated salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a fresh lemon wedge for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
Baked Dijon Salmon – The Perfect Bite
Every forkful of this Baked Dijon Salmon is an explosion of flavor. The crunchy pecan and breadcrumb crust delivers a satisfying bite, while the Dijon mustard and honey create the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The flaky, tender salmon melts in your mouth, enhanced by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party.
Love seafood? Try our Brown Stew Fish recipe for another delicious way to enjoy fresh fish!
Baked Dijon Salmon – FAQs
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes! While Dijon mustard adds a distinct tangy flavor, you can substitute it with spicy brown mustard for a bolder taste or whole-grain mustard for added texture.
What’s the best way to tell if the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If it looks translucent in the center, bake it for another 1-2 minutes.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well as a substitute for pecans, adding a similar nutty crunch to the breadcrumb topping.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the bread crumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
What side dishes go best with this salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, quinoa salad, or a light couscous dish. For more ideas, check out our Butter Chicken Bites recipe for a flavorful appetizer option!
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Dijon Salmon
- Use fresh salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. Overcooking can make it dry, so check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
- Enhance the crust: For extra crunch, swap regular bread crumbs for panko or add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the mixture.
- Let it rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a minute or two after baking. This helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
- Customize the flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or a bit of garlic powder for extra depth of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating in the oven: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Reheating in the microwave: Use a lower power setting and reheat in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out the salmon.
Perfect Pairings for Baked Dijon Salmon
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a delicious side.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture balances the crispy salmon crust perfectly.
- Lemon Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the zesty mustard flavors.
- Steamed Green Beans: A simple, healthy option with a touch of butter and garlic.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: Adds a nutty, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the salmon.
Try This Delicious Baked Dijon Salmon Tonight!
This Baked Dijon Salmon is a must-try for seafood lovers! With its crispy pecan crust, rich Dijon mustard glaze, and tender, flaky salmon, it’s a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.
For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or swapping pecans for almonds to experiment with different textures. No matter how you customize it, this dish is a flavorful, foolproof winner.
Want to explore more salmon recipes? Check out this classic Baked Dijon Salmon version for more inspiration!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy salmon? Let us know in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Looking for more seafood inspiration? Check out our Brown Stew Fish for another delicious dish!
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Baked Dijon Salmon
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4
Description
This mustard-crusted salmon is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor! With a touch of honey, crunchy pecans, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any seafood lover. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
– ¼ cup butter, melted
– 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1½ tbsp honey
– ¼ cup dry bread crumbs
– ¼ cup finely chopped pecans
– 4 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 4 (4-oz) salmon fillets
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, for garnish
Instructions
1. First, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Next, in a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and honey. Set aside.
3. After that, mix the bread crumbs, chopped pecans, and parsley in a separate bowl.
4. Then, brush each salmon fillet lightly with the honey-mustard mixture and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
5. Next, place the fillets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Finally, season with salt and pepper, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve hot!
Notes
For extra crunch, swap regular breadcrumbs with panko! Want a tangy twist? Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving.
- Category: Healthy & Lifestyle
Nutrition
- Calories: 422
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 24g
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