Maple Glazed Baked Salmon

Name: Maple Glazed Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs salmon fillet; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Maple Glazed Baked Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich, natural sweetness of maple syrup with the savory flavors of soy sauce and garlic. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, it's a quick and elegant way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal.

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Ingredients for Maple Glazed Baked Salmon

The star of this dish is the salmon fillet, offering a rich, buttery flavor that's perfectly complemented by the glaze. The pure maple syrup adds a natural sweetness, avoiding the artificial taste of some sweeteners. Soy sauce brings a salty, umami depth, balancing the sweetness. A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavors, while olive oil adds a bit of healthy fat and helps the glaze coat the fish. Minced garlic and ground ginger provide aromatic warmth, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can reduce the glaze in a saucepan over medium heat before pouring it over the salmon.
For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
Use a fish spatula to serve the salmon; it helps in lifting the delicate fillet without breaking it.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Glazed Baked Salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A side of quinoa or a light, mixed green salad complements the flavors well. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and baking.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?: You can substitute with dried parsley or omit it entirely if necessary.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?: Honey or agave nectar can be used, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Maple Glazed Baked Salmon Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready for the salmon, promoting even cooking. In the meantime, grab a small bowl and whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. This will be your glaze, so mix until it's well combined and smooth.

Next, line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. Place your salmon fillet in the dish, skin-side down if it has skin. Pour the maple glaze over the salmon, making sure it's evenly coated. Let the fish sit in this mouthwatering marinade for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This short marination allows the flavors to penetrate without overcooking the delicate fish.

Once marinated, place the salmon in your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on it. You'll know it's done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can dry it out, so aim for that perfect flakiness.

When it's ready, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your fish moist. Before serving, sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a fresh, herby finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that elevate the salmon.
Minimal ingredients but maximum flavor impact.
Healthy and nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Beautiful presentation that impresses guests effortlessly.

Ingredients

2 lbs salmon fillet

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Place the salmon fillet in a baking dish lined with foil or parchment paper.

4. Pour the maple glaze over the salmon, ensuring it is evenly coated.

5. Let the salmon marinate in the glaze for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.

6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.