Anastasia Rice December 14, 2025

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Oven Roasted Salmon

Name: Oven Roasted Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a beautifully roasted salmon fillet, its warm, flaky texture and rich flavor inviting you to linger at the dinner table. Oven Roasted Salmon is the ideal dish for those evenings when you want a meal that feels both special and effortlessly simple. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy date night, or just an easy weeknight dinner, this dish brings the taste of the ocean right to your plate and can be prepared with minimal fuss, allowing you to savor each bite.

Reasons to Love Oven Roasted Salmon

The brilliance of this Oven Roasted Salmon lies not just in its simplicity, but also in its versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, this recipe is incredibly forgiving, perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall for this recipe:

Quick to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
Beautifully caramelized exterior with a tender inside
An aromatic glaze that elevates each bite

Gather These Ingredients

To craft this delightful dish, you’ll need ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a symphony of flavors. Each item plays a pivotal role, and you can even swap in alternatives for a personal touch. Here’s what you’ll need for your Oven Roasted Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

These straightforward ingredients, especially the robust Dijon mustard and honey, create an irresistible glaze that elevates the natural flavor of the salmon.

Cooking Instructions for Oven Roasted Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to help the salmon cook evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The aroma of garlic and mustard will dance in the air as you prepare this delectable glaze.
Place the salmon fillets on the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are skin side down. The skin helps keep the fish moist during baking, creating a tender texture.
Generously brush the marinade over the salmon fillets. This is where the magic happens—the glaze will caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding depth and flavor to every bite.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The delightful scent of roasted garlic and honey will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist peeking inside.
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for about 2 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving; this brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 15 minutes, Total ~ 25 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 300 (estimate).

Prepare in Advance

For those who love to be organized or simply want to save time on a busy weeknight, there are several ways to prep your Oven Roasted Salmon in advance. You can marinate the salmon fillets up to 24 hours beforehand – just keep them covered in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover Oven Roasted Salmon, you’re in luck, as it stores nicely in the fridge. Place the cooked salmon in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the salmon for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist; this maintains the fish’s flaky texture. The telltale sign that your salmon is still fresh? Its smell should be mild, not overly fishy.

Perfect Pairings

Wondering what to serve with your Oven Roasted Salmon? Here are some delightful ideas that complement its flavors wonderfully:

Mashed potatoes for a creamy side.
Steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon.
Quinoa salad with fresh herbs and vegetables.
A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
Roasted Brussels sprouts for an earthy touch.
Garlic bread to soak up any delicious sauce.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Oven Roasted Salmon by making a few simple variations. Here are some exciting ideas:

Herb Crust: Add fresh dill or parsley to the marinade for a fresh herbal boost.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes to bring heat to the glaze.
Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the glaze to enhance the citrus flavor.
Nutty Flavor: Top with crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, before roasting for added crunch.
Honey Substitution: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a slightly different sweetness.
Salmon Alternatives: If you want to switch things up, try this recipe with trout or even chicken.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For perfect results every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use a meat thermometer: Salmon is nicely cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Space the fillets evenly: Ensure there’s some room between each piece on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Rest before serving: Allow the salmon to rest a few minutes after baking for juicier results.
Don’t overcook: Keeping an eye on your salmon and removing it from the oven as soon as it’s opaque will keep it moist and tender.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the fridge before cooking for even results.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with whole-grain mustard or even a touch of yellow mustard, although the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I grill this salmon instead?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully on the grill. Just ensure your grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Is it necessary to skin the salmon?
No, it’s not necessary, but leaving the skin on can help keep the fillet moist while cooking and adds flavor.
What side dishes go well with this?
This salmon pairs nicely with grains, vegetables, or a light salad. You have lots of delicious combinations to choose from.

Final Thoughts

Oven Roasted Salmon is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that can transform any meal into a special occasion. With its easy preparation, delightful flavors, and healthy profile, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Prepare to gather around the table and enjoy this beautiful salmon dish with family and friends soon; you will love every flake of it. Happy cooking!

Oven Roasted Salmon

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Paleo

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Description

A beautifully roasted salmon fillet with a warm, flaky texture and rich flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Place the salmon fillets on the parchment-lined baking sheet, skin side down.
Brush the marinade generously over the salmon fillets.
Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Let the salmon rest for about 2 minutes, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over before serving.