Honey-Mustard Glazed Salmon
A speedy and delicious weeknight dinner featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet and tangy honey-mustard glaze, perfectly complemented by roasted asparagus.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce (or tamari), and minced garlic until thoroughly combined. Season the glaze with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pat the salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear and allowing the glaze to adhere properly. Place the salmon on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears on the other side of the baking sheet. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper, tossing gently to ensure an even coat.
Brush about half of the honey-mustard glaze generously over the top and sides of the salmon fillets. Reserve the remaining glaze for serving or a second coat if desired.
B Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). The asparagus should be tender-crisp.
For an extra caramelized finish, you can briefly broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Watch carefully to prevent burning, as the glaze can brown quickly.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
Serve immediately with the roasted asparagus, optionally garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrus.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Overcooking makes it dry and less flavorful. Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or when it flakes easily with a fork.
- 2Pat Dry for Best Glaze: Ensure salmon fillets are thoroughly patted dry before applying the glaze; this helps the glaze adhere better and caramelize nicely, creating a delicious crust.
- 3Customize Your Glaze: Adjust the honey and mustard ratios to your preference – more honey for sweeter, more mustard for tangier. A dash of sriracha can add a mild kick if you like a little heat.
- 4One-Pan Convenience: Cooking the salmon and asparagus on the same sheet pan not only saves time but also simplifies cleanup, making this an ideal meal for busy weeknights.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat that complements the sweet and tangy notes.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of dried dill or thyme into the glaze, or sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives over the finished dish for added aroma and flavor.
Citrus BrightnessCitrus Brightness
Squeeze fresh orange or lime juice into the glaze instead of or in addition to lemon, for a different citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Lean Protein
This dish provides high-quality lean protein from salmon, essential for muscle repair, satiety, and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Rich in Vitamins & Minerals
Salmon offers vital nutrients like Vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium, while asparagus contributes Vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants, supporting overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight and then patted very dry with paper towels before glazing and cooking to prevent excess moisture.
