Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade

Salmon is one of the most versatile and nutritious proteins you can cook at home, and this Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade elevates it with bright citrus flavors and a subtle tang from Dijon mustard. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, this baked salmon recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even a special occasion.

What makes this recipe stand out is the marinade—a balanced blend of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of honey. It infuses the salmon with flavor while keeping it moist and flaky. Baking in the oven makes it hands-off and simple, yet the results rival restaurant-quality salmon.

Ingredients

• Salmon
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off based on preference
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Lemon Dijon Marinade
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
• Optional Sides
  • Roasted asparagus or green beans
  • Quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate Salmon: Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each fillet generously with the lemon Dijon marinade. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb flavors.
4. Bake Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a slightly golden top.
5. Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, drizzle with any leftover marinade, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

• Check Doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C) internally. Overbaking can dry it out.
• Even Fillets: Choose fillets of similar size for consistent cooking.
• Marinate Briefly: 10–15 minutes is enough for flavor; longer marinating can affect texture.
• Skin On: Baking salmon with skin on keeps it moist; remove skin before serving if desired.
• Optional Broil: For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes after baking.

Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade

Tender baked salmon fillets with a bright, flavorful lemon Dijon marinade.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American, French-inspired

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each, skin on or off
• Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon Dijon Marinade

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 0.5 tsp smoked paprika optional
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Brush or spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with the lemon Dijon marinade. Let sit 10–15 minutes.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Drizzle with leftover marinade and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately with preferred sides.

Notes

For best results, choose even-sized fillets. Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily but remains moist.

Variations

• Maple Dijon Salmon: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper, caramelized sweetness.
• Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Garlic Herb: Mix minced rosemary, thyme, and oregano with the marinade for an herby twist.
• Citrus Twist: Replace lemon with lime for a tangy variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
• Pair with quinoa, couscous, or wild rice for a filling meal.
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of salmon.
• Perfect for meal prep: refrigerate cooked salmon and enjoy within 2–3 days.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

• Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice.
• Dijon mustard originated in France’s Burgundy region and adds a subtle tang and depth to sauces.
• Baking salmon is one of the easiest ways to maintain moisture while achieving rich flavors.
• Lemon and mustard are a classic pairing in French and Mediterranean cuisine.

This Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade is a simple, healthy, and elegant dish, perfect for any occasion. Its bright citrusy flavors, tender texture, and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for salmon lovers.