Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Imagine a perfectly grilled salmon steak: crisp, golden edges, tender, flaky flesh, and the smoky aroma filling your kitchen. Now picture it topped with a luscious, creamy mustard sauce—tangy, slightly sweet, and bursting with fresh chive and lemon flavor. That’s exactly what Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce brings to your plate.
This dish feels both elegant and approachable, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s light, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it as nourishing as it is delicious. Every bite is a balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes that will make your taste buds dance.
Recipe Origin
Salmon is a classic ingredient in many cuisines thanks to its rich flavor and versatility. This recipe combines the simplicity of grilling with a creamy mustard sauce inspired by French cooking techniques. The creamy mustard sauce elevates the salmon, turning it into a gourmet meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Fresh herbs, tangy yogurt or sour cream, and a hint of honey add a bright, flavorful twist.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife & cutting board
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups
Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring perfectly grilled salmon steaks topped with a tangy, creamy mustard sauce with a hint of sweetness and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon steaks
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Creamy Mustard Sauce: 4 tbsp stone-ground mustard, 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream, 4 tbsp finely chopped chives, 2 tbsp honey or keto honey substitute, 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tsp minced garlic (optional), salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush salmon steaks with olive oil or butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill salmon steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and opaque in the center.
- Meanwhile, prepare the creamy mustard sauce by combining stone-ground mustard, Greek yogurt or sour cream, chives, honey, lemon juice, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Serve grilled salmon steaks topped with the creamy mustard sauce.
- Optional: garnish with additional chives or lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use a keto-friendly honey substitute if following a low-carb diet.
- Do not overcook salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American/European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon steak with sauce
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Why You’ll Love Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Quick & Easy
Grilled salmon cooks in just a few minutes, and the sauce comes together in no time—perfect for weeknight meals.
Elegant Presentation
Serve this at dinner parties or special occasions; it looks gourmet but is effortless.
Flavorful & Balanced
Crisp, smoky salmon pairs perfectly with the tangy, creamy mustard sauce, creating a satisfying bite every time.
Healthy & Nourishing
Salmon is rich in omega-3s, and the sauce uses Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed option.
Crowd-Pleasing
Even those who typically shy away from fish will be drawn to this flavorful, creamy combination.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcook the salmon: It cooks quickly; aim for a slightly translucent center.
- Oil the grill or pan: Prevents sticking and helps achieve a golden sear.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
- Chill the sauce briefly: Letting the mustard sauce sit for 10–15 minutes enhances flavor.
- Rest the salmon: Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicier results.
Ingredients in Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Here’s what makes this dish so irresistible. (Note: the full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card above.)
Salmon Steaks
Tender, meaty salmon steaks are the star of the dish, perfect for grilling.
Olive Oil or Butter
Adds flavor and ensures the salmon doesn’t stick to the grill.
Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural salmon flavors.
Stone-Ground Mustard
Gives the sauce a tangy, slightly textured bite.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
Creates a creamy, tangy base that balances the mustard and honey.
Chives
Adds freshness and a mild oniony flavor.
Honey
A touch of sweetness complements the tangy mustard and yogurt.
Lemon Juice
Brightens the sauce and enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.
Garlic (Optional)
Adds aromatic depth to the creamy mustard sauce.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create perfectly grilled salmon with a creamy mustard finish:
Preheat Your Grill
Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Season the Salmon
Season salmon steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Grill the Salmon
Place salmon on the hot grill. Cook 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until cooked through but still moist and tender. Remove and let rest.
Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or sour cream, stone-ground mustard, chopped chives, honey, lemon juice, garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Chill briefly if desired.
Serve
Plate grilled salmon steaks and spoon the creamy mustard sauce over the top. Garnish with extra chives or a wedge of lemon for a beautiful finish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~350–400 (approximate, depending on yogurt vs. sour cream and amount of honey used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
How to Serve Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce
- With Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or carrots complement the creamy sauce.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Absorbs the mustard sauce beautifully.
- With a Fresh Salad: Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens lighten the meal.
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- For Special Occasions: Pair with a crisp white wine for a restaurant-quality experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make the creamy mustard sauce up to a day in advance; store in the fridge.
- Cook salmon fresh for best texture; leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1 day.
- Reheat gently in a pan or oven to prevent overcooking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Mustard Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Herb Twist: Replace chives with dill or parsley.
- Lighter Option: Use low-fat Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie sauce.
- Honey-Free: Substitute maple syrup or skip for a tangier sauce.
- Pan-Seared Instead of Grilled: Sear in a hot skillet for a slightly different flavor.
Additional Tips
- Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a crisp sear.
- Use fresh lemon juice for brightness; bottled juice is okay but less vibrant.
- Let sauce sit briefly for flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use salmon fillets instead of steaks?
A1: Yes! Adjust cooking time to about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A2: Substitute yogurt or sour cream with a dairy-free option like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Q3: Can I grill salmon indoors?
A3: Yes! Use a grill pan or oven broiler for similar results.
Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A4: Absolutely—store in the fridge for up to a day.
Q5: How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?
A5: Oil the grill or pan well and ensure it’s hot before adding salmon.
Q6: Can I use Dijon mustard instead of stone-ground?
A6: Yes, but stone-ground adds a slightly textured, robust flavor.
Q7: Can I freeze leftovers?
A7: Cooked salmon can be frozen, but sauce should be made fresh for best results.
Q8: Can I add garlic to the sauce?
A8: Yes, 1–2 minced cloves enhance flavor without overpowering.
Q9: What side dishes pair well?
A9: Roasted vegetables, salad, rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
Q10: Can I make this recipe for a crowd?
A10: Yes, just multiply ingredients and grill salmon in batches.
Conclusion
Grilled Salmon Steak with Creamy Mustard Sauce is the perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. Crispy, tender salmon paired with a tangy, creamy mustard sauce creates a meal that’s impressive yet effortless. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and wow anyone at your table.
Serve it with your favorite sides, a glass of white wine, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your dinner rotation.
