The warmth of home isn’t just found in the hugs of loved ones but nestled in delightful dishes like Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon. Just imagine pulling this succulent salmon from the oven, its glossy glaze catching the light, infused with that perfect balance of sweet maple and zesty Dijon mustard. It’s cozy, quick, and bursting with flavor, a dish that turns any evening into a celebration of good food and togetherness.
Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon
A cozy and flavorful dish featuring succulent salmon coated in a sweet maple and zesty Dijon mustard glaze, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
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 Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the sheet and brush the glaze generously over each fillet.
- (Optional) Sprinkle the minced garlic on top for an extra punch of flavor.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For an extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down and bake without covering. Brush on additional glaze during the last few minutes of baking for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Let’s Make It Together
Creating this dish is almost as joyful as savoring each bite. You’ll find that preparing this Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon is as simple as whisking a few ingredients together and letting the oven do the work. As the salmon bakes, your home will fill with irresistible aromas, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect baked texture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The glossy mixture should almost feel like a warm hug.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, making cleanup a breeze.
- Place the salmon fillets on the sheet and brush the maple Dijon glaze generously over each fillet. Make sure every bit of salmon gets a good coating; you want every bite to be flavorful.
- (Optional) Sprinkle the minced garlic on top for an extra punch of flavor.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The anticipation builds as the scent fills your kitchen.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to brighten the dish. There’s nothing like the first bite with a hint of fresh lemon!
Nutritional Snapshot
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal without leaving you feeling sluggish. It’s a delightful way to nourish your body while enjoying those comforting flavors.
Perfect Pairings
This Maple Dijon Glazed Baked Salmon is perfect for family dinners on a cozy weeknight or even for impressing guests at a special gathering. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, and a fluffy quinoa salad. For a refreshing touch, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements this dish beautifully. Just picture everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal.
Keep It Fresh
To enjoy leftovers, allow the salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want longer storage, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Betty’s Secrets
- For an extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down in the pan and bake it without covering.
- Brush on additional glaze during the last few minutes of baking to enhance that glossy finish and flavor.
- Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Pairing with a zesty salad not only adds color but brings a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
Creative Twists
- For a fall-inspired dish, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the glaze for a warming twist.
- In the summer, try swapping in fresh herbs like dill or basil for a bright, seasonal flavor boost.
- Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction for a tangy-sweet contrast that makes every bite special.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the best way to cook salmon without drying it out? Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork. A little bit of care goes a long way!
Can I use a different fish instead of salmon? Absolutely, this glaze works wonderfully with other firm fish like trout or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I know if my salmon is fresh? Look for bright, clear eyes if buying whole fish, and make sure the flesh is firm to the touch with no strong fishy odor.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes! You can whisk together the ingredients a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using.