Introduction
Hey there, welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m going to share with you a fantastic recipe for Baked Lemon Dijon Salmon. This dish is a personal favorite of mine, and every time I make it, it brings back memories of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table.
There’s something truly special about the combination of zesty lemon and tangy Dijon mustard that takes this salmon to a whole new level. The flavors meld together perfectly in the oven, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
But first, why exactly will you love this Baked Lemon Dijon Salmon? Well, I make this dish when I want a quick, yet impressive meal that is bursting with flavor. My family goes crazy for this because it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– Fresh salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– Fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
– Dijon mustard
– Garlic cloves, minced
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to make some substitutions based on your preferences. I sometimes use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus twist. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making the recipe your own!
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the lemon Dijon mixture generously over each fillet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
This is where I usually sneak a taste to make sure the flavors are just right. Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage – it always does, but trust me, it will turn out amazing!
Notes
Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that the key to perfecting this recipe is not to overcook the salmon. It’s better to slightly undercook it in the oven as the residual heat will continue to cook the fish even after you take it out.
One variation I’ve tried is adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the lemon Dijon mixture for a hint of heat. However, that experiment didn’t work out so well for my family, so I stick to the original recipe now!
Equipment
If you don’t have a pastry brush to spread the lemon Dijon mixture, don’t worry! You can simply use the back of a spoon or even your fingers to coat the salmon evenly. Cooking is all about improvising with what you have on hand.
Storage information: Though honestly, in my house, this Baked Lemon Dijon Salmon never lasts more than a day! But if you do have leftovers, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this salmon dish with a side of roasted asparagus and quinoa. The flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. However, feel free to pair it with your favorite sides or salads!
Pro tip: I once tried rushing the baking time, and I regretted it because the salmon ended up dry. So, patience is key when it comes to achieving perfectly cooked salmon!
FAQ: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.
Baked Lemon Dijon Salmon Made Easy
A zesty and tangy baked salmon dish marinated in a flavorful lemon Dijon mixture, garnished with fresh parsley. This recipe offers a quick and impressive meal that is both delicious and healthy.
Ingredients
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4 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
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2 lemons, juiced
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1/4 cup Dijon mustard
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the lemon Dijon mixture generously over each fillet.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
