Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (approx. 6 oz each)
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard (for rub)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried dill or parsley
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 3 Tbsp honey (for glaze)
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard (for glaze)
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp hot water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using kitchen paper. A dry surface helps the rub stick and encourages a better crust.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried herbs (dill or parsley), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined to form the rub.
  4. Place the dried salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the mustard-garlic rub over the top and sides of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
  5. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12–18 minutes, or until the fish is opaque pink and the rub looks slightly caramelized.
  6. While the salmon bakes, prepare the glaze: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add the hot water to thin the glaze slightly to a drizzle consistency.
  7. Check the doneness: The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, or when an instant-read thermometer registers an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at its thickest point.
  8. Remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle the zesty honey glaze generously over the baked fillets immediately and serve piping hot.