Description
Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon
A savory and sweet combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, creating a flavorful crust that will make you crave every bite!
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Season salmon with black pepper.
Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and soy sauce.
Heat butter in a pan and cook salmon for 5 minutes per side.
Glaze the salmon with the maple Dijon mix and cook for 1 minute.
Serve immediately for the perfect balance of flavors!
Would you try this sweet-savory combo? Tell us below! #MapleDijonSalmon
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon every time.
- Prep the Salmon: Pat 4 salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear. Season both sides generously with 1 tsp of fresh black pepper.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together 3 tbsp pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp soy sauce until smooth.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet (non-stick or cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp of butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on). Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the bottom third of the fillet is opaque.
- Flip and Cook: Carefully flip each fillet using a spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side.
- Add the Glaze: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the maple Dijon glaze over the fillets, tilting the pan to distribute it. Spoon the glaze over the top of the salmon as it bubbles and thickens for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a beautiful, sticky coating.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Let the salmon rest in the pan for 2 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a healthy plate, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice with steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli. For a more comforting meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette are excellent choices. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a lemon wedge for a bright finish.
How-to Summary
To make Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon: Pat salmon dry and season. Whisk maple syrup, Dijon, garlic, and soy sauce for the glaze. Sear salmon in butter, flip, then pour the glaze over the fillets. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until the glaze is sticky and caramelized. Rest briefly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of mustard? Yes, but for best flavor, use a good quality Dijon. Whole grain mustard will work but provides a different texture. Avoid yellow mustard, as its flavor profile is too different.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. The glaze will also become thick and bubbly.
Can I bake this salmon instead? Absolutely. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with half the glaze and bake for 10-12 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze and broil for 1-2 minutes to caramelize.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce? For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos are a great soy-free alternative that maintains the salty, umami flavor.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, the glaze can be whisked together and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before using for even cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Not drying the salmon, which prevents proper searing. 2) Cooking on too high heat, which can burn the glaze and butter before the salmon cooks through. 3) Overcooking the salmon, leading to a dry texture—remember it will continue to cook slightly while resting. 4) Adding the glaze too early; adding it at the end prevents the sugars from burning and ensures a glossy, flavorful coating.
Conclusion
This Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon recipe is a foolproof way to create an impressive, restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes. The perfect harmony of sweet maple and tangy mustard creates an irresistible glaze that elevates simple salmon into a special occasion dish. With its simple ingredients and clear steps, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dinner.