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Irresistibly Grilled Salmon with Luxurious Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce

When it comes to elegant yet easy dinners, nothing beats the pairing of perfectly grilled salmon with a luscious, creamy Dijon mustard sauce. This recipe highlights the natural richness of salmon with a sauce that’s tangy, velvety, and infused with lemon, garlic, and fresh dill. It’s a dish that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table with minimal effort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for grilling
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Grill pan or outdoor grill
  • Small saucepan (for sauce)
  • Mixing whisk
  • Tongs or fish spatula
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Salmon
  1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with olive oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Grill the Salmon
  1. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Cook salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden with grill marks and cooked through (internal temp 145°F/63°C). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in a drizzle of olive oil for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chopped dill.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
  1. Place grilled salmon on plates, spoon creamy Dijon sauce generously over the top, and garnish with extra dill. Serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended—cream sauce may separate.
Reheating: Warm salmon gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C). Reheat sauce slowly over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
🥄 Variations
Herb Swap: Use parsley, tarragon, or chives instead of dill.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange or lime for a new flavor profile.
Lightened-Up: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Pan-Seared Option: Cook salmon in a skillet with olive oil instead of grilling.
Extra Gourmet: Add a splash of white grape juice to the sauce for depth.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need skin-on salmon?
Skin-on works best for grilling—it helps keep fillets moist. You can remove skin after cooking if desired.
Can I bake the salmon instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then top with the sauce.
What type of mustard works best?
Dijon is classic, but whole grain mustard adds texture and flavor.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, but reheat gently to prevent curdling.
How do I know salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internal temperature.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low-carb.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Roasted potatoes, wild rice, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely before grilling.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely—this sauce is so good you’ll want extra for sides.
What wine pairs best?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy mustard sauce beautifully.
🏁 Conclusion
This Irresistibly Grilled Salmon with Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce is everything you want in a dinner—fresh, flavorful, and elegant. The salmon is juicy and perfectly grilled, while the sauce adds a luxurious touch that elevates the dish to restaurant quality.
Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress your family and guests alike. Easy to prepare yet undeniably decadent, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.