Broiled Salmon with Mustard and Lemon: A Perfect Blend of Zesty and Savory Flavors

Few meals capture elegance and simplicity quite like perfectly broiled salmon. When the rich, buttery flavor of salmon meets the sharp tang of mustard and the brightness of lemon, magic happens. The result is a dish that’s light yet satisfying, sophisticated yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Broiling salmon is one of the quickest ways to achieve that ideal flaky texture with a lightly caramelized top.

The high heat intensifies flavors, giving each bite a slightly crisp edge while keeping the inside moist and tender. Combined with a zesty mustard and lemon glaze, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory and refreshing notes. Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a nutritious meal for yourself, Broiled Salmon with Mustard and Lemon promises to impress. It’s a go-to option for those who want gourmet flavor without spending hours in the kitchen — ready in under 20 minutes and loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a simple breakdown of the ingredients for Broiled Salmon with Mustard and Lemon, along with their estimated calorie counts per serving (based on four servings).

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Fresh salmon fillets (skin on or off)	4 (about 6 oz each)	480
Dijon mustard	2 tablespoons	30
Whole grain mustard (optional)	1 tablespoon	15
Fresh lemon juice	2 tablespoons	8
Lemon zest	1 teaspoon	2
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)	1 teaspoon	20
Garlic, minced	2 cloves	10
Salt and black pepper	To taste	3
Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)	1 tablespoon	2

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Preheat the Broiler

Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, and honey (if using). The honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy mustard beautifully.

3: Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly season with salt and black pepper. Using a brush or spoon, spread the mustard-lemon mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.

4: Broil the Salmon

Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 6–8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Keep a close eye — the high heat can brown the top quickly. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque in the center.

5: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a minute or two. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill and a squeeze of extra lemon juice for a bright finishing touch.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Add a Little Heat: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the mustard mixture for a subtle kick.
• Use Different Mustards: Mix Dijon with whole grain or spicy brown mustard for deeper flavor.
• Make It Creamy: Whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier glaze.
• Herb Variations: Try fresh tarragon, chives, or thyme for different aromatic profiles.
• No Broiler? No Problem! You can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–14 minutes instead.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~172 kcal
Protein	23 g
Carbohydrates	3 g
Fat	8 g
Saturated Fat	1 g
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	High
Sodium	210 mg
Sugar	2 g

Serving Suggestions

Broiled Salmon with Mustard and Lemon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome and balanced meal, serve it with:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables — asparagus, green beans, or broccoli complement the tangy glaze beautifully.
• Whole grains — try quinoa, wild rice, or couscous to soak up the lemony sauce.
• Light salads — pair with a fresh spinach salad tossed in olive oil and balsamic for a refreshing contrast.
• Potato sides — garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes add comforting richness.

If you’re serving this for guests, garnish the plate with thin lemon slices and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

FAQs

1. How long should I broil salmon?

Broiling salmon typically takes 6–8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets and your oven’s heat. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in the center. Thicker cuts may need up to 10 minutes, but avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.

2. Should I use skin-on or skinless salmon for broiling?

Either works! Skin-on salmon helps retain moisture and prevents the fish from sticking to the pan. If you prefer skinless fillets, just brush a little extra olive oil on the foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Can I use other types of mustard besides Dijon?

Definitely! Dijon mustard gives a classic tangy flavor, but you can mix in whole-grain mustard for texture or spicy brown mustard for extra heat. If you like milder flavors, a bit of honey mustard works beautifully too.

4. How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The easiest way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). You’ll also know it’s ready when the flesh flakes easily with a fork but remains slightly moist in the center.

5. Can I make this recipe without a broiler?

Yes! If your oven doesn’t have a broiler, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes. The result will still be flavorful and juicy, though the top may be less caramelized than with broiling.

Conclusion

Broiled Salmon with Mustard and Lemon is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The tangy mustard glaze brings out the natural richness of the salmon, while the lemon adds brightness and freshness to every bite. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.