Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Name: Maple Dijon Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 7, 2025

Updated:

June 7, 2025

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Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it a standout choice for dinner parties or cozy family meals. This recipe not only highlights the rich taste of salmon but also showcases the unique combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, creating a glaze that’s both simple and sophisticated. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish promises to impress with its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have an impressive meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet maple syrup combined with the tangy Dijon mustard creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Healthy Option: Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your favorite sides like vegetables or rice for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper makes for hassle-free cleanup after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Maple Dijon Baked Salmon effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small bowl
Whisk
Brush

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfect cooking results.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a smooth glaze.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 fillets Salmon fillets (About 6 oz each, fresh for best flavor.)

For the Glaze

1/4 cup Pure maple syrup (Adds sweetness to the glaze.)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Provides a tangy flavor.)
1 tablespoon Olive oil (For richness in the glaze.)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced, adds depth to the flavor.)
to taste Salt (For seasoning.)
to taste Pepper (For seasoning.)

For Garnish

1/4 cup Fresh parsley (Chopped, for garnish.)
as needed Lemon wedges (For serving.)

How to Make Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon will cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2. 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. 2 cloves minced garlic
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is well combined to create your flavorful glaze.

Step 3: Prep the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Arrange the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down. Brush generously with the maple Dijon glaze you made earlier, reserving some glaze for later use.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily when done. At about halfway through baking, brush with the reserved glaze for extra flavor.

Step 6: Finish Up and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side to enhance flavor further.

Enjoy this delicious Maple Dijon Baked Salmon as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Serving Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and presentation. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that complement its sweet and tangy profile.

Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens – A light salad with spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw can provide texture and balance the richness of the salmon.

Rice Dishes

Coconut Rice – The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the glaze on the salmon.
Lemon Herb Quinoa – Quinoa infused with lemon and herbs makes for a healthy, zesty side.

Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus brings a nice crunch and vibrant color.
Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic complements the salmon’s flavors wonderfully.

Bread Options

Garlic Bread – A crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls can be served warm to add comfort to your meal.

How to Perfect Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Perfecting your Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is easier than you think. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Bold Marinade – Marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before baking for deeper flavor absorption.
Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh garlic and parsley for optimal taste; they enhance the overall flavor profile.
Check Doneness – Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Broil for Finish – Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking to achieve a caramelized top layer.
Garnish Generously – Don’t skimp on garnishing with parsley; it adds freshness and visual appeal.
Pair Wisely – Choose sides that complement rather than overpower the dish’s unique flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Pairing your Maple Dijon Baked Salmon with suitable side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side.
Grilled Vegetables – A medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions adds color and nutrients.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that’s fluffy and absorbs flavors well from the salmon’s glaze.
Sweet Potato Wedges – Oven-baked sweet potato wedges add sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with lemon dressing provides a refreshing taste contrast.
Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a pop of green freshness to your plate.
Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb base that soaks up flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Dijon Baked Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the salmon to marinate in the glaze can limit flavor. Let the fillets sit in the glaze for at least 15 minutes before baking for enhanced taste.
Using low-quality salmon: Opting for frozen or poor-quality salmon can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always choose fresh salmon fillets for the best results.
Overbaking the salmon: Baking the salmon too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on a pan without parchment can cause sticking. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and flawless presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftover Maple Dijon Baked Salmon in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Frozen salmon can last up to 3 months; be sure to label and date your packages.

Reheating Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maple Dijon Baked Salmon?

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a delicious dish featuring fresh salmon fillets coated with a sweet and tangy glaze made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard.

How long does it take to bake Maple Dijon Baked Salmon?

Baking this salmon typically takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, while this recipe is perfect for salmon, you can also use other fish like trout or cod; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Maple Dijon Baked Salmon healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from the salmon and uses natural ingredients like maple syrup and olive oil, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting the sweetness of the glaze. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!