Indulge your taste buds in the delightfully sweet and savory world of Maple-Glazed Salmon! This quick and easy recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets coated with a crunchy maple sugar crust, broiled to perfection. Finished with a touch of maple syrup for a glossy, bubbling glaze, it’s a dish that brings together simplicity and gourmet flair, all in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Maple-Glazed Salmon recipe is approximately $25, making it about $4.17 per serving (serving 6). Here’s a breakdown of the costs for each ingredient:
- 6 Salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) – $18
- Maple sugar – $3
- Maple syrup (for glazing) – $2
- Olive oil (for drizzling) – $1
- Salt and pepper – $1
Why This Recipe Works
Have you ever been hesitant about cooking salmon because of its reputation for being “fishy”? Trust me, I was once in your shoes! This recipe transforms salmon into a flavor-packed experience that even the pickiest eaters will love. It’s all about the preparation—using fresh ingredients and the right cooking technique seals in those delicious flavors. The maple sugar creates a lovely caramelized crust that not only adds sweetness but also enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Plus, the quick broiling process ensures the fish stays moist while getting that perfect crunch. What’s not to love?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious dish!
- 6 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – ~$18
- 2 tbsp maple sugar (substitute with brown sugar if needed) – ~$1.50
- 2 tbsp olive oil – ~$0.50
- 1 tsp salt – ~$0.10
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – ~$0.10
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for glazing) – ~$2
Feel free to mix it up! For those without maple sugar, a blend of brown sugar and a splash of vanilla can mimic the flavor. Also, you can brush other spices on your salmon, such as garlic powder or paprika, for a nice twist!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Let’s get started! Preheat your oven to broil. This high heat will help us achieve that beautiful caramelization on the salmon. While waiting, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil. This makes clean-up a breeze and ensures your salmon doesn’t stick!
Step 2: Place those lovely salmon fillets skin-side down on the foil-lined sheet. Now, drizzle some olive oil over the fillets and rub it in gently to coat the surface. This will help in creating that crispy top later on. Now, sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over the fish, and get ready for the star ingredient!
Step 3: It’s time for the maple sugar parade! In a small bowl, mix the maple sugar with any additional spices you’d like (like a pinch of garlic powder!). This is your flavor builder. Pat this delightful mixture generously on top of each fillet, creating a thick layer of sweetness that will turn crunchy once broiled.
Step 4: Slide your prepared sheet into the oven and broil for about 6 to 9 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’re looking for the fish to be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it—once the edges start to brown, you know you’re close!
Step 5: After broiling, take the salmon out and brush that lovely maple syrup over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes. You want the syrup to get bubbly and form a glaze that will make your dish shine like a jewel!
Step 6: Once it’s out, let it rest for a minute before serving. This glorious salmon can be paired with fresh sides like lemon-pepper asparagus or creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Get ready to dig in!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s what you get per serving:
- Calories: 207
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 213mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’ve got leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen!), store the salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) to avoid drying it out—or use your microwave with a cover to retain moisture. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps!
Serving Suggestions
This Maple-Glazed Salmon is incredibly versatile! Serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice to soak up the luscious glaze, or pair it with steamed veggies for a bright and fresh contrast. Add a fresh salad on the side with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. For a dinner party, present your salmon with lemon wedges for a touch of elegance and a hit of acidity to brighten the flavors!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Cooking salmon can feel tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! Invest in a good-quality fillet: fresh, vibrant salmon makes all the difference. If you find salmon has a stronger odor, try soaking it in milk for 20-30 minutes before cooking—it works wonders! And remember, everyone’s oven is different; make sure to keep an eye on your fish while it bakes. Trust your instincts—it should be tender and flaky!
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking for even results.
2. What if I don’t have maple sugar?
No worries! You can simply substitute it with brown sugar.
3. Can I use this glaze on other fish?
Absolutely! This sweet and savory glaze works great on trout, halibut, or even chicken!
4. How do I know when my salmon is cooked through?
The best way to tell is when it turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Its sweet flavor is often more appealing to kids than traditional fish recipes.
