This maple glazed salmon is a winner! The sweet and sticky glaze pairs wonderfully with the tender fish, making it both tasty and easy for any dinner.
Add some rice and veggies on the side, and you have a meal that feels fancy but takes little time. I love the sweet flavor that keeps you wanting more! 🍣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal, but you can also use frozen ones if that’s what you have. Just ensure they’re thawed properly before cooking. If you’re looking for a different fish, trout or cod could also work nicely.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use honey or agave nectar, but keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is better for controlling salt levels. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari instead. Coconut aminos also provide a similar flavor without soy.
Rice Vinegar: While rice vinegar is great, apple cider vinegar is a good alternative. You could even use lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
Garlic & Ginger: Both garlic and ginger add depth to this dish. For garlic powder or ginger powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon instead. Fresh is always better if you have it!
Why Is Proper Cooking Important for Salmon?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be a challenge, but it’s worth it for taste and texture. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Pat Dry: Before cooking, make sure to pat the salmon dry. This helps the skin get crispy and not steam in the pan.
- Oil Temp: Use medium heat for cooking. A hot pan with oil ensures you get that nice sear without burning the glaze.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F, which means it’ll flake easily with a fork. If it looks opaque and moist, it’s likely done!
Following these steps will ensure your salmon turns out delicious and tender every time!
How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1-2 green onions/scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: a small side salad or steamed vegetables for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. This sweet and savory mixture will be the star of your dish!
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. This step boosts the flavor and helps with getting that nice sear.
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will ensure the salmon cooks evenly without sticking.
4. Cook the Salmon:
Placement is key! Place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. This is when the skin gets crispy and the salmon cooks halfway through.
5. Flip and Finish:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. This will ensure that the salmon is perfectly cooked.
6. Add the Glaze:
Now, pour the maple glaze over the salmon in the skillet. Spoon the glaze over the fillets gently to cover them nicely.
7. Reduce and Coat:
While cooking, continue to spoon the glaze over the salmon for about 2-3 more minutes. This gives you a sticky, flavorful sauce while still keeping the salmon tender and flaky. Avoid overcooking!
8. Plate It Up:
Once done, remove the salmon from the heat and transfer it to a serving plate. Make sure to spoon any leftover glaze from the pan over the fillets for an extra flavor punch!
9. Garnish:
Top your beautiful salmon with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that finishing touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your maple glazed salmon immediately alongside a fresh salad, some steamed rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete and delightful meal!
Now you can savor the delicious, sweet-salty sticky maple glaze that pairs perfectly with rich salmon. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat the thawed salmon dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can work as substitutes. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, with honey providing a more robust sweetness.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover maple glazed salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before using it in the recipe to combine the ingredients again.
