Save to Pinterest This Honey Mustard Salmon with Broccoli Rice is my secret weapon for weeknight dinners that feel fancy but come together in no time. The tangy sweetness of the honey mustard glaze pairs perfectly with buttery salmon, and the broccoli rice is a fresh twist that keeps things light yet satisfying. If you need something wholesome that packs in vegetables and flavor but does not keep you stuck in the kitchen, this is it.
The first time I tried roasting broccoli to rice size, I was skeptical My whole family devoured it and now we rarely miss regular rice My kids love scooping every bite with extra glaze
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon works best for sweet flavor and moist texture Look for bright flesh and a fresh ocean scent
- Broccoli: Large head or pre-chopped florets For tender rice texture use fresh never frozen
- Honey: Real honey balances the mustard and adds caramelization Go for local if you can find it
- Dijon mustard: Creamy Dijon makes the sauce tangy and smooth Try to avoid yellow mustard which can overpower
- Lemon: Bright citrus lifts both fish and broccoli Use freshly squeezed for maximum flavor
- Olive oil: Helps crisp up the salmon and keep broccoli rice from sticking Choose a robust extra virgin kind for the best taste
- Garlic: Adds depth to both glaze and rice I always use fresh but jarred works in a pinch
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning everything Season with a light hand at the start then taste and adjust
Instructions
- Make the Broccoli Rice:
- Break down the broccoli using a food processor or finely chop by hand until you get small rice-sized pieces Take your time here for the right texture Roughly two to three cups per head of broccoli
- Mix the Glaze:
- In a bowl combine honey Dijon mustard lemon juice minced garlic salt and pepper Whisk until totally smooth and a little thick This step brings the sweet sharp top note that will coat the salmon
- Season the Salmon:
- Pat salmon fillets dry and place skin side down on a lined baking sheet Brush generously with olive oil then sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper Go edge to edge
- Glaze and Roast:
- Spoon or brush the honey mustard glaze over the salmon Spread it thickly so the top is well covered Place in a hot oven at 400 degrees and roast for about twelve to fifteen minutes until just opaque and starting to flake You want it buttery not dry
- Cook the Broccoli Rice:
- While salmon is roasting heat a large nonstick skillet with a drizzle of olive oil Add broccoli rice a pinch of salt and pepper and stir fry over medium heat for about five to seven minutes until it is bright green and just tender Squeeze over a little lemon juice right before serving for extra freshness
- Serve:
- Scoop broccoli rice onto plates and top with the roasted salmon Spoon any leftover glaze from the pan on top and garnish with fresh lemon wedges
Save to Pinterest I have always loved Dijon mustard and its punchy tanginess Even as a kid I smeared it on sandwiches so this glaze makes me happy One of my favorite memories is opening the oven and being hit with that sweet savory aroma as my family gathered around
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for two days Reheat the salmon gently in the oven or microwave so it stays moist The broccoli rice holds up well for lunches the next day and is even good served cold over greens
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh salmon frozen works too just thaw it completely before cooking For the mustard you can switch in whole grain or spicy brown for a twist Maple syrup is a good swap for honey if you need a different sweetness Cauliflower makes a fine substitute for broccoli rice if that is what you have
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meal on its own or add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette Warm crusty bread makes it more filling or try a quick cucumber yogurt dip on the side For a pretty dinner party plate garnish with fresh dill or chives
Save to Pinterest This recipe turns simple salmon into something memorable Be generous with the glaze and serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright finish
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, ensure salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before glazing for best flavor and texture.
- → What type of mustard works best?
Wholegrain or Dijon mustard pairs well with honey, creating a balanced glaze for salmon.
- → How is broccoli rice prepared?
Broccoli florets are pulsed in a processor until rice-sized, then lightly sautéed or steamed.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Simple salads, roasted potatoes, or grilled asparagus pair wonderfully with these flavors.
- → Can I substitute honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for varied sweetness without altering texture.
- → How do I prevent overcooking salmon?
Bake until just opaque in the center; start checking a few minutes before the suggested cook time.