A Sweet and Savory Salmon Dish
Looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious dinner? This Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The rich, flaky salmon is coated in a sticky glaze made from pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a touch of garlic, creating a dish that feels gourmet yet takes less than 30 minutes to make.
Fun Fact
Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes! It enhances savory dishes like salmon by adding a subtle caramelized sweetness that balances out the mustard’s sharpness.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard (optional, for extra texture)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How to Make Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This creates a rich, flavorful glaze that will caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps the glaze stick better.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush a generous layer of the maple Dijon glaze over each fillet, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. Halfway through baking, brush the fillets with more glaze to enhance the flavor and give them a beautiful glossy finish.
Step 5: Broil for Extra Caramelization
For a slightly crispy, caramelized top, switch your oven to broil mode for the last 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for added color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Best Way to Eat
This salmon pairs perfectly with roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over quinoa or brown rice.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the texture.