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This Maple Dijon Salmon recipe stands out for its perfect harmony of sweet and tangy flavors, balancing the rich, buttery texture of salmon with a vibrant maple-mustard glaze.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Salmon is packed with high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and cardiovascular health.
The dish is naturally low in carbs and saturated fat, making it an excellent choice for those aiming for balanced, wholesome meals.
The inclusion of fresh herbs and olive oil adds fiber and good fats, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.
Thanks to its quick prep and baking time, this recipe is ideal for everyday cooking or meal prepping—delivering a satisfying, nutritious dinner with minimal fuss.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Baking Sheet with Parchment Liner
Essential for evenly cooking the salmon and preventing sticking, this tool makes cleanup effortless and keeps your fish tender and juicy. Beyond this recipe, it’s perfect for roasting vegetables or baking cookies.
Small Mixing Bowl
Perfect for whisking together the maple Dijon glaze evenly, ensuring every salmon piece is perfectly coated. A versatile kitchen staple for sauces, dressings, and marinades.
Chef’s Knife
Needed for crushing garlic and chopping fresh herbs, a sharp chef’s knife makes prep faster and safer. It’s indispensable for chopping, slicing, and dicing all ingredients in your kitchen.
Fish Spatula
Ideal for gently flipping or transferring delicate salmon fillets without breaking them. Its thin, flexible edge is a must-have for cooking seafood and pancakes alike.
Meat Thermometer (Optional)
Ensures your salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking, resulting in perfectly flaky, moist fish every time. Great for all meats and poultry for precision cooking.
Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet (lined with parchment paper)
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Fish spatula
- (Optional) 1 Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds fresh salmon fillet skin on or off as preferred
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Maple Dijon Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove finely minced or crushed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- A small handful of fresh herbs such as parsley and cilantro, chopped
To Serve:
- Fresh lemon wedges optional
- Green Goddess Orzo or your favorite side
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Surface: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup quick and easy.
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Pat the fish dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salmon to enhance its natural flavor.
- Make the Flavorful Glaze: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and chopped fresh herbs. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, creating a luscious glaze.
- Apply the Glaze Generously: Pour the maple Dijon glaze evenly over the salmon fillet, spreading it with the back of a spoon or a small spatula to ensure every part is coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for approximately 15 to 18 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.
- Add Fresh Brightness and Serve: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and, if desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add a vibrant citrus note. Serve immediately alongside Green Goddess Orzo or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- Selecting Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible for better flavor and sustainability. Skin-on fillets help retain moisture during baking.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap parsley and cilantro with dill, basil, or chives to suit your taste preferences.
- Glaze Adjustments: Adjust the maple syrup amount if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy glaze.
- Cooking Tips: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender and juicy.
- Make Ahead: The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Salmon
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in this Maple Dijon Salmon comes down to a few insider tips.
First, always pat your salmon dry before seasoning—this helps the glaze stick better and promotes even cooking.
Using fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro adds brightness and freshness that elevates the dish beyond basic baked fish.
Don’t rush the glazing step; take a moment to spread the maple Dijon mixture evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider letting the salmon marinate briefly (15–30 minutes) with the glaze before baking.
Lastly, keep a close eye on baking time — salmon cooks quickly, and overbaking can lead to dryness, so testing doneness with a fork or thermometer is key to a flaky, moist finish.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This salmon pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides that complement its sweet and tangy glaze.
Consider serving it over a bed of Green Goddess Orzo, which adds creaminess and herbaceous depth to your meal.
Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli work wonderfully to round out the plate with fiber and crunch.
For a low-carb option, a crisp mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the fish.
Adding a wedge of fresh lemon on the side invites diners to brighten the flavors just before eating.
For entertaining, garnish with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil to present a visually stunning, flavorful dish.
Storage Tips to Keep Salmon Fresh
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of your cooked salmon.
After cooking, allow the fish to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours.
Transfer the salmon to an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate promptly, where it will keep well for up to 3 days.
To reheat, gently warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F) to avoid drying out the fish.
If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon securely in freezer-safe wrap or a vacuum-sealed bag and consume within 1–2 months for best flavor and texture.
Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before seasoning and glazing to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
2. Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and a fresh aroma, but if you only have dried herbs, use about one-third the amount and sprinkle them into the glaze mixture.
3. Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the salmon skin-side down first, basting with the glaze during cooking. Watch closely to prevent flare-ups.
4. How can I tell when the salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should be opaque and moist, not dry or translucent.
5. What are good side dishes to serve with this salmon?
Try grain salads like orzo or quinoa, steamed or roasted vegetables, light green salads, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Citrus-based sides and vinaigrettes enhance the glaze’s flavors.
This recipe is inspired by somethingnutritiousblog and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
