Oven-Baked Salmon with Leek and Mustard

Salmon with Leek and Mustard – Simple, Straight from the Oven

Salmon often turns out dry at home, usually because it's cooked for too long or the heat isn't even.
The oven solves this reliably, since it works at a constant temperature.
Leek is a natural match for the dish, and it doesn't ask for any extra steps.

This recipe suits everyday cooking well, because you can prepare all the components alongside each other.

Ingredients

• 600 g waxy potatoes

• 2 leeks

• 2 salmon fillets, about 180 g each

• 150 g crème fraîche

• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Flavourless oil

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C fan, so the heat stays constant.
2. Peel the potatoes, cut into even slices and cook in salted water until tender.
3. Halve the leeks lengthways, slice into rings and wash thoroughly, as soil often collects between the layers.
4. Fry the leeks in a little oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until soft but still holding their shape.
5. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place on a baking tray.
6. Spread the leeks evenly over the fish, so everything cooks at the same rate.
7. Stir the mustard into the crème fraîche and spread over the salmon.
8. Bake the salmon for about 15 minutes, so it stays lovely and moist.
9. Drain the potatoes and season to taste with salt.

A Quick Word on the Right Tools

A sharp chef's knife cuts through leek cleanly, because the blade moves through the fibres under control.
Even slices cook more evenly, which keeps the flavour clean and consistent.
With simple dishes like this one, decent kit really pays off. Why not try one of our chef's knives?

What You'll Need:

• Knife: smooth blade, medium length

• Chopping board: non-slip, so you can work safely

• Pan: non-stick or stainless steel

Tips and Variations

• Swap the mustard for horseradish, if you'd like it a bit stronger

• Roughly crush the potatoes, so they soak up more of the sauce

• Swap the salmon for cod, if you'd prefer a milder version

Still not sure about preparing fish? You'll find more guidance on getting fish cooked just right from the German Federal Centre for Consumer Protection and Food Safety.
With that, nothing should stand between you and your love of fish.