This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
This Baked Dijon Salmon recipe features tender salmon with a savory glaze made from Dijon mustard, mayo, fragrant herbs, garlic and zesty capers. It’s a quick and easy baked salmon recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Baked Salmon Recipe
We really love salmon because it’s super healthy and tastes delicious. There are many ways to cook it, like frying, sautéing, smoking, or broiling. Today, we’re sharing an easy baked salmon recipe that’s bursting with flavor – Dijon baked salmon. You’ll love it!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Dijon Salmon
- Great for any meal: This 15-minute baked salmon is perfect for dinner or when you have guests over. It’s easy and delicious!
- Simple and quick: If you want a healthy salmon recipe that’s super easy and quick, you’re in the right place.
- Amazing flavor: Parsley, mayo and Dijon mustard make salmon taste incredible.
- Healthy choice: Even picky eaters will like this nutritious dish.
You’ll Need
- Salmon Fillets: You can use different types of fresh salmon, such as King, Sockeye, or Coho salmon. Choose fillets with or without the skin, depending on your preference. Make sure the salmon is fresh for the best flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use regular yellow mustard, but it will have a milder flavor. You can also experiment with honey mustard for a touch of sweetness.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- Fresh Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and color. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use a smaller quantity (about 1-2 teaspoons) since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
- Garlic: Provides a wonderful depth of flavor. You can use fresh garlic cloves or garlic paste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be substituted, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated in flavor.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: They provide a bright and zesty element. You can use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are unavailable, but fresh is preferred for the best flavor.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a subtle richness. You can substitute it with melted butter or another neutral cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil.
- Salt and Pepper: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference for saltiness and spiciness.
- Capers: They are optional but add a briny, slightly tangy flavor that complements the dish. If you don’t have capers or prefer not to use, omit them.
How to Make Dijon Salmon
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with either a silicone baking mat (silpat) or parchment paper. Arrange the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, making sure to place them with the skin side facing down.
Whisk together the mustard, mayonnaise, dill/parsley, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, salt, pepper and capers in a small bowl.
Generously coat the salmon with the marinade, ensuring that it covers both the top and sides of the fish.
Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Do not overcook it.
How Long to Bake Salmon?
A general guideline is to bake it at 450°F for approximately 12-15 minutes. However, the exact baking time can vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet or steak and your desired level of doneness. You can check out our Ultimate Guide for Temperature To Cook Salmon. The salmon is ready when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions
- Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus, broccoli, or Roasted Brussels Sprouts make a delicious and healthy side.
- Boursin Mashed Potatoes complement the flavors of the salmon.
- Plain Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice is a simple and versatile option. You can also make a lemony or herbed rice for added zest.
- Quinoa: Nutty quinoa is a nutritious choice that pairs well with the Dijon sauce. It’s a great option for those looking for a gluten-free side.
- Sautéed Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan is a healthy and vibrant side dish.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous is easy to make and goes well with the salmon. You can toss it with herbs or spices for added flavor.
- Salmon Salad: Flake the leftover salmon into bite-sized pieces. Combine it with a bed of fresh leafy greens and an assortment of veggies like cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, and radishes. Drizzle a zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing over the salad.
- Salmon Buddha Bowl: Start with your favorite grain, whether it’s rice or quinoa, as the base of your bowl. Layer on a variety of fresh and roasted vegetables, such as roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, sliced bell peppers, and avocado. Place the leftover salmon pieces on top of the veggies. You can further customize your bowl with additional toppings like nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of tahini sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Should I Use Wild or Farmed Salmon?
Wild-Caught Salmon:
- Flavor Intensity: Wild-caught salmon tends to have a stronger and more pronounced flavor, which can pair wonderfully with the Dijon mustard and herbs in the recipe.
- Nutrition: It’s often considered more nutritious due to higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and fewer contaminants.
Farmed Salmon:
- Milder Flavor: It typically has a milder flavor, which can be a good choice if you prefer a less intense taste.
- Availability and Cost: It’s more readily available year-round and is often more budget-friendly than wild-caught salmon.
Storage
Salmon is at its best when served immediately right after cooking. However, if you have any leftovers, it’s a good idea to store them in an airtight glass container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days.
For reheating check How to Reheat Salmon in Air Fryer, Oven and Microwave.
More Easy Baked Salmon Recipes
- Baked Salmon with Potatoes and Vegetables
- Pineapple Salmon
- Baked Salmon and Asparagus in foil
- Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
- Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Oven Baked Teriyaki Salmon
- Baked Boursin Salmon
Pin this now to find it later
Pin It
Baked Dijon Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds salmon fillets, King, Sockeye or Coho salmon, skin off or on
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons capers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with either a silicone baking mat (silpat) or parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet with the skin side facing down.
- Combine the mustard, mayonnaise, dill/parsley, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, salt, pepper and capers in a small bowl.
- Spread the marinade generously over the top and sides of the salmon.
- Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Be careful not to overcook.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
All rights reserved. CHEF JAR. All images and content are copyright protected. PLEASE do not use my images without my permission. If you want to share this recipe, PLEASE provide a link back to this post.
Has anyone tried this with plain yogurt instead of mayo? I hate mayo….or any other suggestions for the mayo
You can try to use sour cream or a mixture of Greek yogurt with a little mustard for an extra kick.
I used frozen salmon filets and baked for 18 minutes and they turned out great! I did not rinse the capers, therefore I did not need to add any salt. Thank you for sharing this easy recipe – I can’t wait to serve it to guests!
Thank you for trying it out, and I hope your guests love it just as much! 😊
Can the marinade be made a day in advance?
Hi Carolyn! Yes, absolutely! You can make the marinade a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the flavors are well combined. 😊
This was easy and delicious!
Thank you, Caroline! So glad you enjoyed it! 😊
This Recipe is so easy better yet,the result is delicious! My husband absolutely loved it. It is now our #1 go-to for baked salmon. It would be great for company.
Hi Susie! That’s amazing to hear! I’m so glad you both enjoyed it—especially when a recipe becomes a new favorite. And yes, it definitely feels fancy enough for guests without any of the stress. Thanks for trying it and sharing your thoughts!