There you are on a busy weeknight, the clock is ticking, and dinner feels like a Mount Everest of a challenge. Enter Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon, your personal culinary superhero. This dish not only sings with sweet and savory flavors, but it also takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. And let me tell you, the aroma of the glaze caramelizing in the oven is better than any motivational playlist you can find.
Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A quick and delicious baked salmon recipe with a sweet and savory maple Dijon glaze, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it, skin side down.
- Brush the maple Dijon glaze generously over each salmon fillet.
- If desired, sprinkle minced garlic on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate salmon in the glaze for 30 minutes before baking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Mastering the Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon
This recipe is about simplicity and satisfaction. Just follow these steps, and you’ll achieve perfectly baked salmon with a delightful glaze that your taste buds will thank you for.
Your Ingredient Lineup
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
These ingredients are all about balance: the richness of the salmon, the zesty kick from the mustard, and the sweet finish from maple syrup. Simple, right?
Cooking Method Made Simple
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it, skin side down.
- Brush the maple Dijon glaze generously over each salmon fillet.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle minced garlic on top — it never hurts to layer flavors.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Remember, the right cooking time is key; overcooking can lead to a dry fish.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges for that fresh zing.
The combination of flavors is what makes this dish truly shine. You get that crunchy glaze with a hint of tartness from the lemon, while the salmon remains tender inside.
Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: About 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
This salmon dish is balanced and filling without feeling heavy, making it great for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Pair this delightful salmon with a light quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a refreshing meal that everyone will appreciate. It’s also perfect for family dinners, impressing guests or simply fueling a hectic week. Adding a crusty piece of bread and some sautéed greens also rounds out the plate beautifully.
Storage & Reheat Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep that glaze intact. Freezing is also an option – just make sure to store the air out of the container as best as you can, and it’ll hold for about a month.
Smart Tips
- To amplify the flavor, marinate the salmon in the glaze for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; it can lead to uneven cooking.
- If you like a bit of crunch, broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to caramelize the glaze.
- Keep a close eye on the time; every minute counts when it comes to cooking fish.
- Want to add some herbs? A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley before serving can elevate the dish beautifully.
Creative Flavor Twists
- Seasonal Spin: In the fall, try adding a splash of apple cider to the glaze for a seasonal touch.
- Flavor-Forward: Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick.
- Unexpected Idea: Swap out the mustard for a spicy harissa paste for bold flavors that transform the dish entirely.
Quick Questions, Straight Answers
How do you know when Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. No one likes overcooked fish, so keep an eye on it.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before following the recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly for thicker fillets, so adjust as needed.
What sides go well with Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Is it possible to make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. Just give it a good whisk before using, as it may thicken in the fridge.
