Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon Recipe

Name: Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 (4 ounce) fillets salmon; 3 tablespoons prepared Dijon-style mustard; salt and ground black pepper to taste; 0.25 cup Italian-style dry bread crumbs; 0.25 cup butter, melted

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

4 (4-ounce) fillets of salmon
3 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
cup Italian-style dry bread crumbs
cup butter, melted

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Line a shallow baking pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking pan, skin-side down.
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the top of each salmon fillet.
Season the fillets with salt and pepper to your liking.
Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over each fillet, followed by drizzling the melted butter over them.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Once baked, remove from the oven and serve. Enjoy your delicious baked salmon with Dijon mustard!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 331
Total Fat: 22g (28% DV)
Saturated Fat: 9g (46% DV)
Cholesterol: 107mg (36% DV)
Sodium: 553mg (24% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 8g (3% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)
Protein: 25g (50% DV)
Vitamin C: 0mg
Calcium: 23mg (2% DV)
Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
Potassium: 348mg (7% DV)

Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon Recipe

Introduction: The Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon recipe combines the delicate flavors of fresh salmon with the sharp tanginess of Dijon mustard. This simple yet flavorful dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. But beyond the recipe itself, let's delve deeper into the origins, regional characteristics, and interesting facts surrounding this delightful dish.

Origin and History

Salmon has been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, particularly in regions where the fish is abundant, such as Scandinavia, the Pacific Northwest of the United States, and parts of Russia. The introduction of mustard as a flavoring agent in cooking can be traced back to Ancient Rome, where mustard seeds were used as a condiment and later spread throughout Europe. Dijon mustard, specifically, originated in the French city of Dijon in the 18th century. It quickly became popular for its smooth, mild heat and has since become a quintessential ingredient in many French dishes.

The combination of Dijon mustard with baked salmon is a relatively modern creation, likely born out of the growing trend of pairing seafood with bold, tangy sauces. The use of Dijon mustard adds a sharp contrast to the richness of the salmon, creating a well-balanced and flavorful dish that has gained popularity across the world, especially in American kitchens.

Regional Features and Variations

The Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon recipe is most commonly associated with American and French cuisine, with regional adaptations depending on local ingredients. In the U.S., it is often paired with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. In France, where Dijon mustard originates, the dish might be served with simple potatoes or steamed greens, allowing the flavors of the salmon to shine.

Regional variations include the use of different mustard styles. While the classic Dijon mustard is most popular, some cooks opt for honey mustard for a sweeter, milder flavor, or even spicy brown mustard for added heat. The use of different breadcrumbs (such as panko or Italian-style) also adds texture, which can vary from region to region.

Distinctions from Similar Dishes

At first glance, baked salmon fillets with mustard might seem similar to other fish recipes, such as salmon with a mustard glaze or mustard-crusted fish. However, the Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon stands apart due to the unique combination of Dijon mustard and seasoned breadcrumbs. This creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky salmon beneath it.

Additionally, many recipes for mustard-glazed salmon focus on creating a sticky, caramelized finish, whereas the Dijon version focuses on a simpler, cleaner approach with a crunchy breadcrumb topping that complements the fish's texture without overwhelming it.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is commonly served at home for a delicious, healthy dinner. It is also a popular choice for dinner parties, where its sophisticated yet easy-to-make nature impresses guests without requiring extensive preparation. In upscale restaurants, you may find this dish as part of a seafood or Mediterranean-inspired menu, often paired with fresh, seasonal vegetables or a light salad. Its balance of flavors makes it a versatile dish suitable for both casual meals and elegant occasions.

Fun Facts About Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
In ancient times, mustard was used not only as a condiment but also for its medicinal properties, particularly for digestive health.
The Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon recipe is adaptable and can be made low-fat or dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or a plant-based spread.
This recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate different types of fish, such as trout or cod, for a slight variation on the classic salmon version.

Conclusion: The Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon recipe is a delicious fusion of historical flavors, offering a modern twist on the classic combination of fish and mustard. Whether enjoyed at home or in a restaurant, this dish remains a timeless favorite for those seeking a healthy, flavorful, and simple way to prepare salmon. Experiment with different mustard varieties and breadcrumb textures to make it your own!

AI Audio version of the recipe is available!

You can listen to this recipe in AI audio format. Simply click the play button below to listen to the content in a format that suits you best. It’s a great way to absorb information on the go!

FAQ about Baked Salmon Fillets Dijon Recipe

Store leftover baked salmon fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, it's recommended to consume the salmon within 1-2 days.

Yes, you can freeze baked salmon fillets. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can substitute with yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even whole grain mustard. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also use mayonnaise mixed with a little bit of lemon juice or vinegar.

Yes, you can use other types of breadcrumbs such as panko, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or homemade breadcrumbs. Each type will affect the texture slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

If you don’t have an oven, you can cook the salmon in a skillet. Heat some oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the salmon fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are cooked through and flake easily with a fork.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you're unsure, you can check by gently pressing the salmon with a fork – it should easily separate into flakes.

Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets. However, the skin helps to keep the salmon moist during baking, so the texture may be slightly different without it. Just be sure to watch the cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking.

Yes, you can prepare the salmon up to the point of baking. After applying the mustard and breadcrumbs, cover the salmon with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours. When ready to bake, just place it in the preheated oven and follow the instructions.

Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter version of this recipe. Use the same amount of olive oil as the butter called for in the recipe. Keep in mind that butter adds a richer flavor, while olive oil will give the dish a slightly different taste.

Baked salmon fillets Dijon pair well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice or couscous for a more filling meal.

Comments

Ryan Lee

11/23/2023 02:26:08 PM

Fantastic! I prefer using more mustard than the recipe calls for, enough to coat the salmon well. I opt for a sweet Dijon or country-style Dijon mustard for extra flavor. Homemade bread crumbs work best for this dish, and I like to keep them slightly coarse. For a crunchier coating, broil the top or spray with a butter spray like "Can't Believe It's Not Butter," which coats better than melted butter and helps the salmon brown nicely. Despite my husband's dislike for Dijon mustard, he always requests this salmon dish. It's delicious cold the next day for a snack or on a salad. Thank you for sharing the recipe—it's a keeper!

Deborah Phillips

07/22/2024 03:42:41 PM

Fantastic! I substituted Honey Mustard for Dijon Mustard and omitted the butter to cut down on calories. I baked it and it was a hit with everyone. The flavor gets even better the next day when it's cold. Don't forget to try it in a salad with the leftovers! :)

Katherine Collins

05/29/2025 09:27:38 PM

Absolutely scrumptious - I followed the cooking instructions to a tee and then broiled it for an extra 2-3 minutes to get that perfect crisp on top. To elevate the dish, I mixed a dash of honey and mayo (roughly a tablespoon each) into the Dijon for the topping, and served it alongside a delightful avocado, tomato, red onion, and black bean salsa.

Ruth Ramirez

11/24/2024 06:20:16 PM

I prepared the dish following the recipe to the letter, using Panko breadcrumbs and giving it a quick broil at the end until the breadcrumbs got nicely browned. Absolutely fantastic! Thanks for sharing this recipe.

Thomas Phillips

01/30/2024 03:34:34 PM

Panko breadcrumbs and chopped pecans provided the ideal crispy texture. I used 4 oz fillets but will opt for larger (6 oz?) next time. The combination of Dijon mustard and salmon was absolutely fantastic!

Stephen Hill

10/04/2023 04:36:56 PM

I made some modifications to the recipe: Instead of just using mustard, I added Penzey's spice - Ozark before applying the mustard. I recommend being generous with the mustard. I then coated the salmon with crushed panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch :). Instead of using butter, I opted for extra virgin olive oil. After baking, I lightly drizzled the salmon with melted butter, although I find it's not necessary. To finish, I generously squeezed lime/lemon juice over the top. I also added chunks of tomatoes and avocado, seasoned with salt, pepper, and more citrus juice to complement the salmon's flavor. I served it with a side of Quinoa. Absolutely delicious!

Kevin Scott

11/01/2022 08:00:08 AM

Review rephrased: This recipe is fantastic and simple to prepare. The salmon came out perfectly cooked. The combination of salmon with Dijon mustard is excellent. I personally felt that there wasn't enough mustard, so I added a bit more on my plate to dip the salmon in. I used honey Dijon mustard which added a nice flavor. I will definitely be making this again. Update: I made this dish again with a few tweaks. I first spread some honey on the salmon, followed by a layer of Dijon mustard. After letting it sit for 15 minutes, I placed it under the broiler for 2 minutes to create a crispy topping. The result was absolutely delicious!

Katherine Lopez

10/16/2024 01:25:14 AM

I'm not particularly fond of salmon, but my husband loves it. I make it for him a few times a month. When I came across this recipe, I decided to give it a shot. Since I didn't have any Dijon mustard, I improvised a substitute using dry mustard, water, white wine vinegar, and mayonnaise. I melted butter and combined it with panko breadcrumbs before coating the salmon. My husband insisted that I make it this way from now on.

Virginia Martinez

09/30/2022 07:50:19 AM

This recipe was absolutely wonderful and thoroughly enjoyed by my usually selective family, especially when it comes to fish dishes. I didn't have Italian Bread Crumbs on hand, so I substituted with Panko bread crumbs. I also took the advice to soak the crumbs in butter, which turned out to be a great tip. Adding a hint of Old Bay seasoning gave the dish a delightful kick. Although I plan on making this again, I'll be cutting the butter amount in half to lower the calorie content and tone down the buttery flavor.

Diane Parker

11/08/2022 03:10:07 PM

The tangy flavor of the Dijon mustard enhanced the salmon beautifully, resulting in an excellent taste!

Sarah Martin

09/21/2022 09:08:53 AM

It ended up being great!

Heather Perez

12/10/2022 10:18:20 PM

I found this recipe to be excellent! The only modification I made was omitting the salt as I have high blood pressure and my husband has CKD.

Nancy Phillips

08/06/2023 09:20:02 PM

Excellent!

Richard Smith

07/12/2024 08:06:58 AM

No modifications.

Jeffrey Walker

11/02/2024 03:06:24 PM

I have been using this BBB recipe for many years now. It is absolutely fantastic! However, I like to enhance it by adding sugar-free maple syrup instead of butter. This addition gives it a touch of sweetness that really elevates the dish. Overall, a great recipe!

Samantha Collins

10/21/2022 05:32:48 AM

This recipe is amazing and super simple. I combine equal parts mayonnaise and stoneground mustard, then bake it at a slightly higher temperature towards the end to achieve a delicious crunchy brown crust on the edges.

Brian Smith

10/30/2023 03:02:44 AM

It was incredibly fast, required almost no cleanup, and absolutely delicious

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Simple Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

View Recipe

audio version

Cook Time: 70 minutes