Baked salmon is one of those rare dishes that feels equal parts elegant and effortless. With the right marinade — one that enhances the salmon’s natural richness instead of overwhelming it — you get a melt-in-your-mouth, restaurant-quality dinner with almost no work. This Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade is exactly that recipe: foolproof, vibrant, deeply flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, preparing something fresh for family dinner, or treating guests to a dish that looks far fancier than it is, this recipe will quickly become a go-to. The marinade blends bright lemon, tangy Dijon mustard, aromatic garlic, and silky olive oil, creating the perfect balance of acidity, richness, and savory depth. As it bakes, the salmon practically bastes itself, resulting in soft, fork-tender flakes and a glossy, aromatic finish.

Below, we dive into everything you need to know — from ingredients to variations to chef-level secrets — so your baked salmon comes out perfect every single time.

Why This Lemon Dijon Baked Salmon Works So Well

1. The Lemon Dijon Marinade Is Magic

Lemon and mustard together create a dynamic combination: the acidity cuts the salmon’s richness, while mustard emulsifies the marinade so it clings to the fish. Garlic adds warmth, while olive oil keeps the salmon moist.

2. Foolproof Cooking Method

Baking salmon at moderate heat ensures even cooking and prevents the outside from drying while the inside stays flaky.

3. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

Seven basic ingredients — most already in your kitchen — deliver a gourmet-level result.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Weeknight dinner? Meal prep? Holiday entrée? This salmon covers it all.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt — to taste
• Black pepper — to taste

For the Lemon Dijon Marinade

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for serving)
• 1 tsp honey (optional — balances acidity)

Garnish (Optional)

• Lemon slices
• Extra parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Marinade
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
3. Season the Salmon
   Pat each salmon fillet dry and place it into the baking dish. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Coat with Marinade
   Spoon the lemon Dijon marinade evenly over each fillet, making sure the tops are fully covered.
5. Bake the Salmon
   Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. Salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
6. Broil for 1–2 Minutes (Optional)
   For a golden finish, broil briefly — but watch closely to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.

Perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Dijon Marinade

A juicy, tender baked salmon infused with a bright and savory lemon Dijon marinade. Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for dinner or meal prep.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 fillets

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: American, Healthy

Calories: 290

Ingredients

  

Salmon

• 4 fillets salmon fillets about 6 oz each
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Lemon Dijon Marinade

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp parsley chopped
• 1 tsp honey optional

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl.
3. Pat salmon fillets dry, place in baking dish, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Pour marinade over salmon, coating the tops evenly.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes with a fork.
6. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden finish.
7. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate salmon for 10–30 minutes before baking.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon Every Time

1. Don’t Overcook It

The most common mistake with salmon is overbaking. Remove it from the oven the moment it flakes.

2. Use Fresh Lemon Juice Only

Bottled lemon juice lacks brightness and can make the marinade flat.

3. Skin-On Salmon Works Best

The skin acts as a built-in moisture barrier.

4. Let It Marinate Longer for More Intensity

10–30 minutes of marinating makes the flavors even more vibrant.

Variations

Honey Garlic Lemon Dijon Salmon

Add 2 tbsp honey for a sweeter glaze.

Spicy Dijon Lemon Salmon

Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha.

Herb-Loaded Salmon

Increase parsley and add dill or thyme for a Mediterranean touch.

Sheet Pan Dinner Version

Bake salmon with asparagus, broccoli, potatoes, or green beans for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice, or buttery couscous.
• Pair with asparagus, zucchini, or roasted broccoli.
• Add to salads, bowls, wraps, or meal-prep containers.

Fun Facts

• Salmon is one of the richest natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Dijon mustard originates from Dijon, France, and enhances marinades by acting as a natural emulsifier.
• Lemon is a classic fish pairing because its acidity neutralizes brininess and brightens flavor.