This Maple Glazed Salmon recipe offers a sweet and savory twist on dinner. Learn how to make it perfectly glazed and tender in minutes.
Maple Glazed Salmon
If you’re searching for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this Maple Glazed Salmon ticks all the boxes. The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a comforting dinner option that comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe highlights tender salmon fillets coated with a sticky maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Why You’ll Love It
The combination of pure maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a flavorful glaze that enhances the natural richness of salmon without overpowering it. Plus, it’s easy to customize with pantry staples and is naturally gluten-free. You’ll enjoy a moist, flaky salmon every time with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – for natural sweetness
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – use tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang
- 1 clove garlic, minced – fresh or jarred works fine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for coating the salmon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to season
- Lemon wedges – optional, for serving
Substitutions: If you prefer a lower-sugar option, try honey instead of maple syrup. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a soy-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing it to begin cooking through.
- Remove from oven and brush the maple glaze evenly over each fillet, covering all surfaces.
- Return the salmon to the oven and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the glaze bubbles and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
This maple glazed salmon pairs wonderfully with easy weeknight dinners like steamed vegetables or rice bowls.
Expert Tips
For perfectly cooked salmon, look for a slightly opaque color and flaky texture. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist. Try broiling for 2-3 minutes at the end for a caramelized top. You can prepare the glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storage
Store leftover maple glazed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace salmon with tofu steaks and adjust baking time accordingly.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener. Use pure maple over other syrups.
FAQ
- What is the best way to cook Maple Glazed Salmon? Baking at 400°F and finishing with a glaze brush creates a tender, flavorful dish.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze a few days ahead, but it’s best to cook the salmon fresh.
- What side dishes pair well with Maple Glazed Salmon? Try roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Is the Maple Glazed Salmon recipe gluten-free? Yes, just swap traditional soy sauce for tamari if needed.
- How do I know when the salmon is done? It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
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Explore more flavorful dishes in our Dinner Recipes collection and check out trusted tips on Food Network.
