If you’re looking for the perfect balance of sweet and savory, this Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. The rich, buttery salmon fillets are coated in a glossy maple glaze with just enough tang and a hint of spice to keep every bite exciting. It’s a weeknight wonder that feels like a special occasion—yet it comes together in just about 25 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish never fails to impress and will quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe is how the straightforward ingredient list delivers so much flavor. Each item pulls its weight, from the maple syrup’s natural sweetness to the pop of garlic and the addictive umami of soy.
- Salmon fillets: Opt for fresh, center-cut salmon for the flakiest, most flavorful results.
- Pure maple syrup: Go with real maple syrup for the most authentic sweetness; this is what creates the gorgeous, caramelized glaze.
- Soy sauce: Adds that essential depth and a touch of salt to balance the syrup.
- Dijon mustard: The mustard’s gentle tang cuts through the richness and brings the flavors together.
- Olive oil: Helps the glaze stick to the salmon and ensures a beautifully moist texture.
- Garlic, minced: Brings aromatic punch and pairs deliciously with the maple.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and seasoning.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle fiery kick and a hint of color—totally up to you.
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley: Use as a fresh, zippy garnish that brightens up the finished dish both visually and on the palate.
How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, you’ll appreciate it later! Arrange your salmon fillets on the sheet, skin-side down, giving them enough space for the glaze to work its magic.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra zing. The glaze should be glossy and slightly thick, with aromas that already have you excited for dinner.
Step 3: Glaze the Salmon
Spoon or brush the maple glaze generously over each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—make sure every surface is coated! The glaze will create a luscious finish and help lock in moisture while baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your glazed salmon in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze bubbles slightly around the edges. For those caramelized bits everyone loves, broil the fillets for the last 1 to 2 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with plenty of fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges. The citrusy aroma and vibrant color make this Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe look and taste like a total showstopper.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up each plate with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The parsley adds an herbaceous note and a splash of color, while the lemon lifts the sweetness of the glaze, making each bite sing.
Side Dishes
This Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a nutty wild rice pilaf. Roasted green beans, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad are also fabulous choices for refreshing contrasts to the rich salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Take dinnertime up a notch by slicing the cooked salmon into smaller pieces and serving it over a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of any remaining glaze. Or, top a bed of greens with flaked salmon for a hearty salad—leftovers work great for this too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover salmon will keep well in the fridge for up to three days—just let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. The glaze helps the fish stay moist and flavorful for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe, allow the salmon to cool, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. This keeps the salmon juicy without overcooking it. The microwave also works in a pinch—just use 50 percent power for gentle reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon fillets completely and pat them dry with paper towels before glazing and baking. This helps the glaze stick and gives you a perfectly cooked texture.
Is there a good substitute for maple syrup?
If you’re out of maple syrup, honey makes a great alternative in this recipe. You’ll get a slightly different flavor but the glaze will still bring that beautiful sheen and sweetness to the salmon.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?
Yes! This Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe is fantastic on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook the salmon on an oiled grate, skin-side down, brushing with extra glaze as it cooks. Grill for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
What type Main Course
Both Atlantic and wild-caught Pacific salmon work well here. Look for fillets that are thick, firm, and vibrant in color. Wild-caught will provide a richer flavor, but use what’s readily available and freshest.
How do I avoid overcooking the salmon?
Keep a close eye on your salmon in the final minutes—the key is pulling it from the oven just as it becomes opaque and flakes effortlessly with a fork. Don’t skip the broil at the end for that irresistible caramelized finish!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason this Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe finds its way back to my kitchen week after week—it’s reliable, stunning, and beyond delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this recipe is approachable and guaranteed to earn rave reviews. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll be your new favorite way to enjoy salmon, too!
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Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Maple Glazed Salmon recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The succulent salmon fillets are coated with a luscious maple glaze and baked to perfection, creating a dish that is both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Maple Glaze:
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Coat Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Spoon or brush the maple glaze generously over each fillet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For a caramelized finish, broil the salmon for the last 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, marinate the salmon in the glaze for 15–30 minutes before baking.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
