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Lemon Pepper Dijon Salmon

Lemon Pepper Dijon Salmon

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Pepper Dijon Salmon combines the zest of fresh lemons with the tang of Dijon mustard for a quick weeknight dinner. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Make it tonight for a meal that’s both simple and gourmet!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds salmon fillet skin-on
  • 2 lemons sliced into thin rounds
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 rounded tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground lemon pepper or to taste
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
  • fresh parsley optional for garnishing

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. If you have convection capability, be sure to use it for even cooking. This temperature will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and achieves that lovely flaky texture.
  2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan. Place the salmon skin-side down on the sheet, making sure it’s centered.
  3. Nestle the slices of lemon underneath and around the salmon. This aromatic addition not only flavors the fish but also helps to keep it moist as it bakes.
  4. Drizzle the salmon evenly with olive oil. Don’t be shy; this helps to crisp the skin and enhances the flavor. Make sure all parts of the salmon are well-coated.
  5. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Whisk them together until fully mixed. This mixture will serve as a flavorful topping for the salmon.
  6. Slowly spoon the lemon-Dijon mixture over the salmon. Make sure to cover it evenly so that every bite is packed with flavor. Season with kosher salt and lemon pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  7. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you'll want the salmon to be just cooked through, tender, and flaky.
  8. When the salmon is nearly done, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Drizzle the salmon with a bit of honey for a lovely caramelized finish. It adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the dish.
  9. Switch your oven to broil, setting it to high. Broil the salmon for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This step adds a lovely char and enhances the flavors further.
  10. If you prefer not to broil, you can bake it a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired doneness. Just be careful not to overcook; you want it moist and succulent!
  11. Once finished, optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Keep a very watchful eye on the salmon if you broil it because the honey in the sauce will be prone to burning and it can go from fine looking to burnt in less than 1 minute.
  • Tip 2: Read blog post for suggestions about how to know when salmon is done, as all pieces vary in thickness and cooking times.
  • Tip 3: Salmon is best fresh but will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 4 days.