Name: Honey Mustard Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ to 2 pounds salmon fillets; 3 tablespoons honey mustard (or 1½ tablespoons honey + 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard); 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 3 teaspoons); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided: 2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; Pinch of salt

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This honey mustard baked salmon is one of my favorite quick and flavorful dinners. With just six ingredients and only 20 minutes from start to finish, I can have a tender, juicy piece of salmon with a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy glaze. The dill and garlic add freshness, while the lemon brightens every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this dish is—mix the glaze, brush it on, and let the oven do the work. The honey and Dijon mustard pair so well with salmon, giving it a gourmet taste without the need for complicated steps. It’s also versatile enough to serve with anything from a simple green salad to a fancy risotto. Plus, the recipe works for weeknights just as well as for impressing guests.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 to 2 pounds salmon fillets
3 tablespoons honey mustard (or 1 1/2 tablespoons honey plus 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard)
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 3 teaspoons)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided into 2 tablespoons and 1 tablespoon)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Pinch salt

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the honey mustard, garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt.
I line a roasting pan with aluminum foil. Then, I brush the salmon fillets on both sides with the remaining olive oil. If the fillets have skin, I place them skin-side down on the foil. I coat the top with the honey mustard glaze.
I bake the salmon for 8 to 10 minutes, just until it’s barely cooked through. I like to remove it when the center is still slightly rare since it continues cooking with residual heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, for a total of 20 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap fresh dill for parsley or tarragon for a different herbal note. For extra heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. If I want a richer taste, I mix in a teaspoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the honey mustard sauce. This recipe also works beautifully with trout or cod.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the salmon in a low oven (about 275°F) for 10–12 minutes until warmed through, which keeps it moist. I avoid microwaving because it can make the fish dry.

FAQs

How do I know when my salmon is perfectly cooked?

I remove it from the oven when it’s just slightly translucent in the center—it will finish cooking as it rests.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but I make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking to ensure even baking.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

Whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard work well, though the flavor will be a bit different.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

What sides go best with honey mustard salmon?

I like serving it with roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

This honey mustard baked salmon is my go-to when I want something delicious, healthy, and quick. The simple glaze elevates the salmon without overpowering it, and the whole dish comes together in minutes. It’s a recipe I can always rely on—whether for a casual dinner or when I want to impress without stress.