Maple Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe

Introduction

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a delicious and healthy dish featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and tangy mixture of pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking of the salmon.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to form the glaze.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the sheet and brush the glaze generously over each fillet, reserving some for later.
4. Step 4: Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through baking, brush the fillets with the reserved glaze to enhance the flavor and create a caramelized finish.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Substitute honey for maple syrup for a floral sweetness.
• Try different mustards like whole grain or spicy brown for unique flavors.
• Add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an herby aroma.
• Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky flavor, cooking about 6-8 minutes per side.

Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. For best texture and flavor, enjoy it fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, fish like trout, cod, or halibut can be used with similar glaze and cooking methods. Adjust cooking times depending on thickness and type of fish.

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to absorb. If short on time, you can apply the glaze directly before baking without marinating.

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 63 reviews

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a delicious and healthy main course featuring fresh salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and tangy mixture of pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and garlic. Baked to perfection at 400°F, this dish offers a moist, flavorful fish complemented by fresh parsley and lemon wedges, making it an elegant yet simple meal suitable for any occasion.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), fresh for best flavor

Glaze

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Garnish and Serving

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, as needed (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and a nicely baked salmon.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the flavorful glaze.
3. Marinate the Salmon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the sheet and brush the maple Dijon glaze generously over each fillet, reserving some glaze for later.
4. Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through baking, brush the fillets with the reserved glaze to enhance the flavor and create a caramelized finish.
5. Serve and Garnish: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, refreshing accompaniment.

Notes

• This recipe is versatile; you can adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or increase tanginess by adding more Dijon mustard.
• Use fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible for superior flavor and texture.
• Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist; check for flaking with a fork or use a meat thermometer aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Letting the salmon rest after baking improves juiciness.
• Optional additions to the glaze include sriracha or chili flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for aromatic complexity.

Keywords: Maple Dijon Baked Salmon, baked salmon recipe, healthy salmon dish, maple syrup salmon, Dijon mustard glaze, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, salmon main course