Easy Apricot Glazed Salmon: A Simple and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option? Look no further than this easy apricot glazed salmon recipe! This dish is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The apricot glaze adds a beautiful shine and a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Apricot Glazed Salmon
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Apricots are a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The combination of sweet apricot, tangy lemon, and savory salmon is simply irresistible.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding different spices or herbs to the glaze.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The glossy apricot glaze makes this dish look elegant and sophisticated, perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Salmon Fillets:** Choose skin-on or skinless salmon fillets, about 6-8 ounces each. Skin-on fillets will have a crispier texture, while skinless fillets are easier to eat. Look for salmon that is bright in color and firm to the touch. If purchasing frozen salmon, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking. Consider using wild-caught salmon for a richer flavor and higher nutrient content. Sockeye and Coho salmon are excellent choices.
* **Apricot Preserves:** High-quality apricot preserves will provide the best flavor. Look for preserves that are made with real apricots and have a minimal amount of added sugar. If you don’t have apricot preserves, you can substitute with other fruit preserves like peach or orange marmalade, but the flavor will be slightly different.
* **Soy Sauce:** Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the glaze. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
* **Lemon Juice:** Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the glaze, balancing the sweetness of the apricot preserves. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a savory depth to the glaze. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted, but use sparingly.
* **Ginger:** Freshly grated ginger adds a warm and slightly spicy note to the glaze. Ginger paste can be used as a substitute.
* **Olive Oil:** Use olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet or pan. Other cooking oils like avocado oil or coconut oil can also be used.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the salmon to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or lemon wedges for serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Skillet:** A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or an oven-safe skillet is needed to cook the salmon in the oven. If using a skillet, make sure it is oven-safe. Cast iron skillets are an excellent choice.
* **Small Bowl:** To whisk together the apricot glaze.
* **Whisk:** To combine the ingredients for the glaze.
* **Spoon or Brush:** To spread the glaze over the salmon.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Optional: Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the salmon is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
Step-by-Step Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Apricot Glaze**
In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a touch of honey or maple syrup. If you prefer a more savory glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
**Step 2: Prepare the Salmon**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease an oven-safe skillet with olive oil. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet or skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them to brown better. Season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste.
**Step 3: Glaze the Salmon**
Brush the apricot glaze generously over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring that the entire surface is coated. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of glaze, as it will caramelize beautifully in the oven. Reserve any remaining glaze for basting during cooking.
**Step 4: Bake the Salmon**
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). If you’re using thicker salmon fillets, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Baste the salmon with the reserved glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to add extra flavor and shine.
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Apricot Glazed Salmon
* **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Salmon is best when it’s slightly undercooked in the center. It will continue to cook as it rests. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough.
* **Use High-Quality Salmon:** The quality of the salmon will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose fresh, sustainably sourced salmon whenever possible.
* **Adjust the Glaze to Your Liking:** Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the glaze. Add a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
* **Line Your Baking Sheet:** Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will make cleanup a breeze.
* **Rest the Salmon Before Serving:** Letting the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
* **Broil for Extra Caramelization:** For a deeper caramelization on the glaze, broil the salmon for the last minute or two of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** The most accurate way to ensure the salmon is cooked to the correct temperature is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet.
Serving Suggestions
This apricot glazed salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Rice or Quinoa:** A simple side of rice or quinoa is a great way to soak up the delicious apricot glaze.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are all excellent choices.
* **Salad:** A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
* **Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potato Mash:** Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash are comforting and satisfying accompaniments.
* **Green Beans:** Steamed or sautéed green beans with a sprinkle of almonds or toasted sesame seeds.
* **Asparagus:** Grilled or roasted asparagus spears.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Other Fish:** This glaze works well with other types of fish, such as cod, halibut, or tuna.
* **Different Preserves:** Experiment with different fruit preserves, such as peach, orange marmalade, or fig preserves.
* **Honey or Maple Syrup:** Substitute honey or maple syrup for the apricot preserves for a different flavor profile.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or garlic powder to the glaze for extra flavor.
* **Herbs:** Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary into the glaze or as a garnish.
* **Citrus:** Use orange juice or lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrusy twist.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Apricot Glazed Salmon with Dijon Mustard:** Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the glaze for a tangy kick.
* **Apricot Glazed Salmon with Soy Ginger Marinade:** Marinate the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil before glazing with the apricot mixture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can prepare the apricot glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also marinate the salmon in the glaze for up to 30 minutes before baking. However, don’t marinate it for too long, as the acidity of the lemon juice can start to break down the fish.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover apricot glazed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. The salmon may be slightly drier upon reheating, so consider adding a small amount of water or broth to the container before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 6-ounce salmon fillet)
* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 35-40g
* Fat: 20-25g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
* Fiber: 2-3g
(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Apricot Glazed Salmon FAQs
* **Can I use frozen salmon?** Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
* **Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?** Yes, you can grill the salmon. Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
* **Can I make this recipe with skin-on salmon?** Yes, you can use skin-on salmon. The skin will become crispy and delicious when baked.
* **What if I don’t have apricot preserves?** You can substitute with other fruit preserves, such as peach or orange marmalade.
* **How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?** The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
* **Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet with the salmon?** Absolutely! Add some chopped broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to the baking sheet for a complete meal.
* **Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?** Yes, you can use other cooking oils, such as avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
More Delicious Salmon Recipes
If you enjoyed this apricot glazed salmon recipe, you might also like these other delicious salmon recipes:
* **Lemon Herb Baked Salmon:** A classic and simple salmon recipe with bright lemon and fresh herbs.
* **Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon:** A sweet and savory salmon recipe with a sticky honey garlic glaze.
* **Teriyaki Salmon:** A flavorful salmon recipe with a tangy teriyaki sauce.
* **Blackened Salmon:** A spicy and smoky salmon recipe with a blackened seasoning blend.
* **Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa:** A refreshing and vibrant salmon recipe with a creamy avocado salsa.
Conclusion
This easy apricot glazed salmon is a winner! It’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious. The sweet and savory glaze perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, making it a meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for entertaining, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable salmon experience! Now you have a simple and delicious meal using salmon.