Name: Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each); 1/3 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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If you’re hunting for that perfect balance of sweet and savory, Maple Glazed Salmon is bound to become your new weeknight favorite. Imagine tender, flaky salmon dressed in a glossy glaze that brings together rich maple syrup, tangy Dijon, and a splash of soy—the kind of harmony that’s sophisticated but requires almost no fuss. This recipe turns simple, wholesome ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish you’ll want to make on repeat, and it’s equally fantastic for a quick family dinner or an impressive date night in.

Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about Maple Glazed Salmon is how it transforms a handful of everyday ingredients into a flavor-packed experience. Each component plays a vital role in creating magic: from the sweetness of maple syrup to the subtle kick of Dijon, every bite is a little celebration.

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, center-cut fillets for moist, evenly cooked results; wild-caught is especially flavorful if you can find it.
Pure Maple Syrup: The star of the glaze! Don’t substitute with pancake syrup—look for grade A or B pure maple for the richest taste.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth, keeping the saltiness in check so the sweetness of maple shines.
Dijon Mustard: Gives the glaze a subtle tangy punch that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Garlic (Minced): Freshly minced garlic brings an aromatic backbone that makes the glaze irresistible.
Olive Oil: Ensures the salmon stays juicy and gives the glaze a light, silky sheen.
Black Pepper: Just enough to perk up all the flavors with a gentle hint of heat.
Salt: Enhances every ingredient; don’t skip it, but measure with care.
Lemon Wedges & Fresh Parsley (Optional): A spritz of lemon brightens the dish, and parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon

Step 1: Whisk the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, combine the pure maple syrup, low-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good whisk until the ingredients are completely blended and the mixture is glossy. This is where the magic starts—the aroma alone will kickstart your appetite!

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the fresh maple glaze over the top, making sure every piece is well coated. Cover and tuck the dish into the fridge, allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours if you have the time for extra depth). The flavors soak in and gently infuse the fish, elevating the final bite.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven gets nice and hot, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for effortless cleanup and to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down, leaving room between each fillet for even cooking. Pour any extra marinade right over the top—you won’t want to waste a drop!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know the Maple Glazed Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the glaze looks caramelized and slightly sticky. For an extra glossy finish and crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—the sugar in maple syrup caramelizes quickly!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully transfer each fillet to a plate (they’ll be delicate!). Give them a generous squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like. Serve immediately while the glaze is at its best: lusciously warm and aromatic.

How to Serve Maple Glazed Salmon

Garnishes

For that professional chef’s touch, finish your Maple Glazed Salmon with a handful of chopped fresh parsley and wedges of lemon. The herbs lend vibrant color and a clean, herby note, while the citrus adds brightness and cuts through the rich glaze. Sometimes, a few thin slices of radish or a dusting of toasted sesame seeds can also elevate the look and taste.

Side Dishes

This dish is super versatile! Serve your Maple Glazed Salmon with fluffy jasmine rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a grain bowl if you’re leaning healthy. It pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed greens salad for a complete, well-balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take things up a notch for guests, try flaking the maple glazed salmon over a leafy spinach salad, or tucking pieces into warm tortillas for salmon tacos with slaw. Mini fillets work great for party appetizers, especially when skewered and served with little dipping bowls of extra maple glaze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Maple Glazed Salmon, let it cool to room temperature before covering tightly and storing in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 2 days, remaining moist and flavorful for lunchboxes or quick next-day dinners.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze cooked maple glazed salmon. Wrap each cooled fillet in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

To avoid drying the salmon out, reheat gently in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, enjoy cold over salads or sandwiches, as the glaze’s flavor shines even straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make Maple Glazed Salmon with frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon fillets completely in the fridge and pat them dry before marinating so the glaze clings and flavors soak in deeply.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Maple Glazed Salmon can be gluten-free with a simple swap: just use tamari instead of soy sauce. Double-check your Dijon mustard and other ingredients to be certain they’re gluten-free as well.

How can I tell when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly moist fish every time.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

Definitely! Preheat your grill to medium, oil the grates, and cook the marinated fillets skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with extra glaze. The smoky char from grilling makes the maple glaze even more irresistible.

What’s the best way to marinate for more flavor?

While 30 minutes does the trick, marinating your Maple Glazed Salmon for up to 2 hours lets those sweet, savory flavors deeply penetrate. Just don’t go beyond that or the acid in the marinade may start to change the fish’s texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a recipe that’s as easy as it is impressive, give this Maple Glazed Salmon a spot on your dinner menu. It’s a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that just might turn even the pickiest salmon skeptics into loyal fans. Try it once and you’ll be hooked!

Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Maple Glazed Salmon recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that perfectly complement the tender, flaky salmon. The maple syrup adds a caramelized glaze, while the soy sauce and Dijon mustard provide a rich umami depth. Easy to prepare and impressive to serve, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

Marinade:

1/3 cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Garnish:

lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a dish, pour the marinade over them, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Preheat and Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet, place salmon fillets skin-side down, pour remaining marinade, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Broil and Serve: For a caramelized top, broil for 1-2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with lemon and parsley.