This grilled salmon with Dijon mustard sauce combines perfectly flaky, smoky salmon with a rich, tangy cream sauce that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality heights. The combination of fresh herbs, bright lemon, and creamy Dijon creates a sophisticated flavor profile that’s surprisingly simple to achieve at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled salmon with Dijon mustard sauce delivers impressive results with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The high-protein salmon provides excellent nutritional value while the creamy sauce adds indulgent flavor without overwhelming the fish’s natural taste. The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, and the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. The Dijon mustard sauce is versatile enough to pair with other proteins, and the grilling method ensures a beautiful char while keeping the salmon moist and tender inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the grill)
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Dijon Mustard Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Salmon:
- Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F)
Make the Dijon Mustard Sauce: 5. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, minced garlic, and lemon juice 6. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to simmer 7. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened 8. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste 9. Remove from heat and keep warm
Grill the Salmon: 10. Clean and oil the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking 11. Brush salmon fillets lightly with olive oil on both sides 12. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill (if skin-on) or flesh-side down first (if skinless) 13. Grill for 4-5 minutes without moving the fillets to achieve good grill marks 14. Carefully flip the salmon using a wide spatula 15. Continue grilling for 3-4 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F 16. Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes
Serve: 17. Plate the grilled salmon and generously spoon the warm Dijon mustard sauce over each fillet 18. Garnish with additional fresh dill and serve immediately
Helpful Tips
Choose salmon fillets of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking, and look for fillets with bright color and firm texture. If your fillets have skin, leave it on during grilling as it helps hold the fish together and can be easily removed after cooking. Create a two-zone fire on your grill by having one side at high heat and another at medium heat, allowing you to move the salmon if it’s cooking too quickly.
For the sauce, avoid boiling the cream mixture as it may curdle; keep it at a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process. The sauce can be made up to 2 hours ahead and gently rewarmed before serving. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a tablespoon of warm cream or chicken broth.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Nutritional Benefits: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and vitamin D. This recipe provides approximately 35 grams of protein per serving.
Notes
Wild-caught salmon typically has a more robust flavor than farm-raised, but either works well for this recipe. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried dill, though fresh provides better flavor and presentation.
The internal temperature of properly cooked salmon should reach 145°F, but many prefer salmon slightly less done at around 135-140°F for a more tender texture. For those who prefer their salmon well-done, cook until it flakes easily with a fork.
If you don’t have a grill, this recipe works equally well using a grill pan on the stovetop or by broiling in the oven for 6-8 minutes total.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream? Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be thinner. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon should flake easily when tested with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque throughout with just a hint of translucency in the center.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them very dry before seasoning and grilling.
What sides pair well with grilled salmon with Dijon mustard sauce? Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, wild rice pilaf, or garlic mashed potatoes complement this dish beautifully.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free? You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover grilled salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The Dijon mustard sauce can be stored separately for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the salmon gently in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes, and reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
For longer storage, the cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly. The cream-based sauce does not freeze well due to potential separation.
Conclusion
This grilled salmon with Dijon mustard sauce recipe transforms a simple piece of fish into an elegant, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky grilled salmon and creamy, tangy sauce creates a memorable dining experience that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its straightforward preparation and impressive presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special weeknight meal, this grilled salmon with Dijon mustard sauce delivers exceptional flavor and visual appeal that will impress family and guests alike.