Maple Dijon Salmon: A Quick, Delicious, and Healthy Weeknight Meal

Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag or lengthy preparation? Look no further than this Maple Dijon Salmon recipe! This dish is incredibly easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and packed with flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a delightful glaze that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon. Plus, salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making this a healthy and satisfying choice for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.

## Why You’ll Love This Maple Dijon Salmon

* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, this dish takes less than 30 minutes.
* **Flavorful:** The maple Dijon glaze is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
* **Healthy:** Salmon is packed with omega-3s and other essential nutrients.
* **Versatile:** Pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa.
* **Impressive:** Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
* **Minimal Cleanup:** This recipe uses simple ingredients and easy cooking methods, resulting in minimal cleanup.
* **Customizable:** Easily adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice level to your liking.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** A guaranteed hit with both adults and children.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Salmon Fillets:** 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference).
* **Maple Syrup:** 2 tablespoons, preferably pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Using a lower quality syrup will change the taste.
* **Dijon Mustard:** 2 tablespoons, adds a tangy and savory element.
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon, for cooking the salmon and adding richness.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed, brightens the flavor.
* **Garlic:** 1 clove, minced, adds a savory depth.
* **Soy Sauce:** 1 teaspoon, low sodium, enhances the umami flavor (optional).
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste, for seasoning.
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish (optional).
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** A pinch, for a touch of heat (optional).

## Equipment Needed

* **Baking Sheet:** For baking the salmon in the oven.
* **Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper:** To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
* **Small Bowl:** For whisking together the glaze.
* **Whisk:** For combining the glaze ingredients.
* **Measuring Spoons and Cups:** For accurate measurements.
* **Citrus Juicer (optional):** For easy lemon juicing.
* **Garlic Press (optional):** For easy garlic mincing.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Prepare the Salmon

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
* Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze adhere better and ensures the salmon cooks evenly. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of baking, which we want to avoid.
* Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Ensure the fillets are spaced evenly to allow for proper air circulation.
* Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as salmon can be quite mild on its own.

### 2. Make the Maple Dijon Glaze

* In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and soy sauce (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are fully combined and the glaze is smooth and emulsified.
* Taste the glaze and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more maple syrup. For a tangier glaze, add more Dijon mustard or lemon juice. If you want a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

### 3. Glaze the Salmon

* Brush the maple Dijon glaze evenly over the salmon fillets. Make sure to coat each fillet thoroughly to ensure maximum flavor. You can use a silicone basting brush or the back of a spoon to apply the glaze.
* If you have any leftover glaze, reserve it for later. You can brush it on the salmon again during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.

### 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 cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
* Check the salmon for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s ready. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.
* If you want a slightly caramelized glaze, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

### 5. Serve and Enjoy

* Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
* Serve the Maple Dijon Salmon immediately with your favorite side dishes.

## Tips for Perfect Maple Dijon Salmon

* **Use High-Quality Salmon:** Opt for wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutritional value. If using farmed salmon, choose a reputable source.
* **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Aim for a slightly undercooked center, as it will continue to cook after it’s removed from the oven.
* **Adjust the Glaze to Your Liking:** The maple Dijon glaze is very customizable. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
* **Line the Baking Sheet:** Lining the baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper makes cleanup much easier.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley will elevate the flavor of the dish.
* **Let the Salmon Rest:** Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking ensures it stays moist and tender.
* **Broil for Caramelization:** Broiling the salmon for the last minute or two will give the glaze a beautiful caramelized finish.

## Serving Suggestions

This Maple Dijon Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
* **Quinoa or Rice:** A healthy and filling grain to soak up the delicious glaze.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic comfort food pairing.
* **Green Beans:** A simple and healthy side dish.
* **Lemon Wedges:** For an extra burst of citrus flavor.

## Variations

* **Spicy Maple Dijon Salmon:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
* **Honey Dijon Salmon:** Substitute honey for maple syrup in the glaze.
* **Garlic Herb Salmon:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to the glaze.
* **Ginger Sesame Salmon:** Add grated ginger and sesame oil to the glaze.
* **Grilled Maple Dijon Salmon:** Grill the salmon instead of baking it for a smoky flavor.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover Maple Dijon Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the salmon in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
* **Freeze:** Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

## Nutritional Information (per serving)

* Calories: Approximately 350-450
* Protein: 35-45 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Maple Dijon Salmon Recipe

**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 2 tablespoons maple syrup
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
* Salt and black pepper, to taste
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and soy sauce (if using).
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for a caramelized glaze (optional).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy this delicious and easy Maple Dijon Salmon! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the variations and find your favorite way to prepare this versatile dish. Bon appétit!