Easy Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful dish that brings together crispy texture and juicy, tender salmon, this Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with tangy honey mustard glaze and a satisfyingly crunchy panko topping, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels special without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Boost: The honey mustard glaze adds the perfect balance of sweet and tangy that elevates the salmon instantly.
• Crispy Panko Crust: A golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender fish underneath.
• Fast Weeknight Friendly: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a delicious, stress-free dinner.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3s, paired with wholesome, simple ingredients.
• Customizable to Taste: Easily adapt this recipe to add herbs, spices, or a little heat to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe both delicious and straightforward. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of texture and taste.

• Fresh Salmon Fillets: Choose firm, skin-on fillets for the best texture and flavor.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a light, crispy crust that browns up beautifully in the oven.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle tang and depth to the honey mustard sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Helps bind the panko crust and keeps it moist.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances flavor with a mild, savory note without overpowering.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy uplift that balances richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to amplify all the flavors.
• Olive Oil or Butter (optional): To drizzle or dot on top for extra crispiness and richness.

Variations for Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe

One of the best parts about this Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to tweak it for dietary needs or just to experiment with flavor, here are a few tasty ideas.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh chopped dill, parsley, or thyme to the panko for a fragrant touch.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the crust for some heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead of panko.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a unique flavor profile.
• Sweet Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred.

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How to Make Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This glaze will both flavor the salmon and help the panko crust adhere.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then place them skin-side down on a lined baking sheet. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze and Panko

Brush a generous layer of the honey mustard glaze over each fillet. Next, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly on top, pressing gently so they stick to the glaze.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the panko topping is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness

If you prefer an even crunchier crust, place the salmon under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Pro Tips for Making Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe

• Room Temperature Salmon: Let the salmon sit out for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
• Don’t Overload Panko: Too much crust can overpower the fish, so keep a thin, even layer.
• Use Fresh Panko: Fresher breadcrumbs toast better and produce a lighter crust.
• Rest After Baking: Allow salmon to rest for a few minutes on the baking sheet to lock in juices.
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust the honey amount to suit your preferred balance of sweet and tangy.

How to Serve Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side brighten flavors and allow guests to customize acidity.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed vegetables, garlic roasted asparagus, or a fluffy quinoa salad. Creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad also complement the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salmon fillets on a rustic wooden board with sides arranged artfully, or plate on patterned dishes with colorful garnishes to impress guests visually as well as in taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the crust intact by placing the salmon on a paper towel lined dish to absorb any moisture.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container. Use within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) wrapped in foil to warm through without drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that crispy panko crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before cooking to ensure even baking and crispy crust.

What if I don’t have mayonnaise? Can I substitute it?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute, which will still help bind the panko and add moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! The Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe reheats very well and makes a great high-protein meal prep option.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is already dairy-free if you skip adding butter or use a plant-based spread instead.

How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder or hotter?

The original recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust spice levels by adding paprika, chili flakes, or hot sauce according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

When you want an effortless yet impressive dinner, the Honey Mustard Salmon with Panko Crust Recipe is a perfect choice to satisfy both your taste buds and your schedule. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salmon dish!

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