Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maple Mustard Salmon is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines the rich, savory taste of salmon with the sweet tanginess of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. This simple yet sophisticated glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon fillets
maple syrup
Dijon mustard
garlic (minced)
soy sauce
olive oil
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

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

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin-side down.

Spoon or brush the maple mustard glaze generously over each fillet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is slightly caramelized.

Optionally, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a deeper golden top.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use grainy mustard instead of Dijon for added texture.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Top with crushed pecans before baking for a nutty crunch.
Try it with steelhead trout as an alternative to salmon.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave gently at 50% power in 30-second intervals.
Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before applying the glaze.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling?

Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with glaze as it cooks.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon in the glaze for up to 4 hours in the fridge before baking.

What can I serve with maple mustard salmon?

Great options include roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey works too, though the flavor will be slightly different and a bit less rich.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the sweet glaze tends to be a hit with kids.

Do I need to flip the salmon during cooking?

No, it’s best to leave the salmon skin-side down for even cooking and easier handling.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I freeze cooked salmon?

Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What kind of salmon works best?

Any variety works, but center-cut fillets from Atlantic or sockeye salmon are ideal for even cooking.

Conclusion

Maple Mustard Salmon brings together bold yet balanced flavors in a quick, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sticky glaze and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be coming back for more.