This Maple Glazed Salmon is a true winner! The sweet maple syrup mixes perfectly with soy sauce and garlic for a tasty glaze that makes the fish shine. Yum!
Every bite is a sweet and savory delight, and it cooks up quickly. I love serving it with rice and veggies for a colorful plate—what a feast! 🥦🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, trout can work well too. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed since trout may cook faster.
Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, agave syrup or honey can be great alternatives—though honey will make it slightly sweeter.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is often the better choice to keep the dish from being overly salty. If you’re avoiding soy, you can try coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work too in a squeeze. If you don’t have garlic on hand, shallots could add a nice mild flavor as a substitute.
Fresh Ginger: While optional, ginger adds a lovely warmth to the dish. No fresh ginger? Try ground ginger instead, just use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Salmon Skin?
Getting that crisp skin on your salmon is key to a successful dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with dry salmon fillets. Pat them dry to remove moisture, which helps them crisp up.
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil—this makes a huge difference. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet. Don’t move it for at least 2-3 minutes. This allows the skin to firm up and get that beautiful crisp.
- Flip gently and give it another 2 minutes to cook the other side before adding your glaze.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked salmon every time!
How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Steamed or roasted green beans or asparagus (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a nice crisp skin! Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. Make the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and grated ginger if you’re using it. This glaze is what makes your salmon so flavorful!
4. Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy.
5. Flip and Add Glaze:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour the maple glaze evenly over the salmon, letting it soak in a bit.
6. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 6-8 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, spoon any remaining glaze from the pan over the salmon fillets. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped parsley or green onions. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of side, like steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.
Enjoy your delicious Maple Glazed Salmon with its sweet and savory glaze that will make you want seconds! 🌟
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Should I Serve with Maple Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or asparagus. You could also serve it over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to prevent it from drying out.
Is There a Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup. Keep in mind that honey will add a slightly different flavor but will still give you that sweetness.
