This Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is a showstopper, with the perfect balance of creamy Dijon mustard and fresh garlic, complemented by a touch of lemon and parsley. The salmon becomes tender and flavorful, while the mustard glaze adds a tangy kick to each bite. This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s a deliciously healthy option that can be paired with your favorite sides, from roasted vegetables to a simple salad. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this dish is a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust based on your flavor preferences—feel free to experiment with adding your favorite herbs or spices to make it truly your own.
Full recipe:
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Ingredients:
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4 salmon fillets
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
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Spread the mustard mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
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Garnish with additional parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is an incredibly flavorful, simple-to-make recipe that transforms an everyday dinner into something extraordinary. The combination of salmon, garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs creates a taste explosion that is both satisfying and healthy. Salmon is well-known for being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other nutrients that are essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy diet, and this recipe allows you to enjoy these benefits in a mouth-watering dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this baked salmon recipe is easy to follow and results in a perfectly cooked, flaky fillet with just the right amount of tanginess.
A Flavorful Combination
At its core, Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is a marriage of delicious ingredients: flaky salmon fillets, savory garlic, tangy Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic parsley. This combination of flavors works beautifully together, with each ingredient enhancing the other. The mustard and garlic form a rich, zesty glaze that perfectly complements the natural flavor of the salmon, without overpowering it. The lemon juice provides just enough acidity to balance the richness of the fish, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that feels elevated, yet doesn’t require hours of preparation or fancy techniques. The Dijon mustard glaze adds a sophisticated twist to your standard baked salmon, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Why This Recipe is the Best Choice for You
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is considered one of the healthiest foods you can eat, and it’s no wonder why it’s a staple in many health-conscious diets. This fish is loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining good cardiovascular health. Omega-3s are known to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Moreover, salmon is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. It also provides a good amount of vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune system function.
Packed with Antioxidants and Nutrients
In addition to omega-3s, salmon also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, potassium, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is vital for maintaining healthy nerve function and red blood cell production, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure and heart function. Selenium is an important antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative stress and supports a healthy immune system. This dish doesn’t just taste great – it’s also packed with nutrients that promote overall wellness.
Boosts Brain Health
The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are particularly beneficial for brain health. Studies have shown that consuming omega-3-rich foods like salmon may improve cognitive function and memory, reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, and even promote better mental health. Eating salmon regularly can also support emotional well-being by helping to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Perfect for Quick Weeknight Dinners
One of the best things about this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, you can have a healthy, flavorful dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. This makes it the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you’re looking for a nutritious, no-fuss meal that doesn’t take up too much time. Unlike other elaborate dinner recipes that require a lot of steps and ingredients, this dish is refreshingly simple, yet packed with flavor.
The cooking process is also relatively hands-off, as you simply place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet, top them with the Dijon mustard and garlic mixture, and let the oven do the work. This makes it a great recipe for anyone who’s new to cooking or prefers minimal clean-up. The result is a perfectly baked salmon that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
An Elegant Dish for Special Occasions
While this recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners, it also makes an impressive dish for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or having a romantic dinner at home, this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is sure to wow your guests. The combination of flavors is refined and sophisticated, and the presentation of the salmon fillets, topped with the golden garlic mustard glaze and fresh parsley, looks beautiful on any dinner table. It’s a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine-dining restaurant, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
Versatility in Pairing
Another reason this recipe is a winner is its versatility when it comes to pairing with sides. Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon can be served alongside a variety of sides, depending on your preferences. For a lighter meal, pair it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus. For a more filling dinner, serve it with quinoa, brown rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also add a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a bit of sweetness and extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to tailor this dish to suit any dietary preference or occasion.
How to Customize the Recipe
This recipe is easily customizable to fit your personal taste. If you’re not a fan of Dijon mustard, you can swap it out for another type of mustard, like honey mustard or spicy brown mustard. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic or add a touch of honey to the glaze for a sweeter twist. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings – try adding a sprinkle of thyme, rosemary, or dill for a unique flavor profile. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to make it your own and experiment with different variations.
Conclusion
Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is a versatile, delicious, and healthy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only does it offer a wealth of health benefits, but it also provides a flavorful, easy-to-prepare meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.