Name: Maple Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Salmon fillets (About 6 oz each, fresh for best flavor); 1/4 cup Pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges, as needed

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If you are searching for a dish that is bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, the Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe beautifully balances the natural richness of fresh salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze made from pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and zesty notes that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Maple Dijon Baked Salmon brings warmth and excitement to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shopping for this recipe is a breeze because each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor profile and texture. These simple essentials come together in a glaze that not only enhances the salmon but also gives the dish a beautiful glossy finish.

Salmon fillets: Fresh fillets (about 6 oz each) ensure a tender, juicy base for the glaze to shine.
Pure maple syrup: Adds a delightful sweetness that balances the tang of the mustard.
Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy depth that complements the natural flavors of the salmon.
Olive oil: Brings richness and helps the glaze coat the fish flawlessly.
Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic depth without overpowering it.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the other ingredients.
Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and freshness to the glaze.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish.
Lemon wedges: Served on the side to brighten each bite with a splash of citrus.

How to Make Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the salmon to a flaky, moist perfection, while also allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly for a beautiful, glossy finish. Preparing your baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease will prevent sticking and make cleanup a snap.

Step 2: Whisk the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This simple mixture is the heart of your Maple Dijon Baked Salmon. The ingredients blend seamlessly, balancing sweetness, tang, and richness that will coat the salmon in every bite.

Step 3: Glaze the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Use a brush to apply a generous layer of the glaze over each fillet, saving some for later. This step ensures the fish absorbs the flavors deeply as it cooks.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the salmon in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Halfway through baking, brush on the reserved glaze to boost flavor and moisture. You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork—soft, tender, and infused with that irresistible maple Dijon goodness.

Step 5: Garnish and Rest

Once out of the oven, let the salmon rest for a few minutes to let the flavors settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges to squeeze over for that final touch of brightness.

How to Serve Maple Dijon Baked Salmon

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic and uplifting, but you can also add thinly sliced green onions or a tiny drizzle of extra maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Lemon wedges are essential—they cut through the richness perfectly and add a fresh zing that highlights the glaze.

Side Dishes

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon pairs beautifully with simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which add crunch and earthiness. For a comforting side, creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad with herbs are wonderful companions. The starch balances the fish and glaze, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, serve the salmon on a bed of wild rice or alongside a vibrant mixed greens salad. You can also plate it over a smear of herbed yogurt or hummus for added texture and flair. Presentation is a chance to elevate this straightforward dish into something special that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Maple Dijon Baked Salmon keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to refrigerate it promptly and store the salmon separately from any fresh lemon wedges to keep everything as fresh as possible.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen salmon is best eaten within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly as it can easily dry out the fish. Covering with foil while reheating helps retain moisture and preserves that luscious glaze texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before baking so they cook evenly and properly absorb the Maple Dijon glaze.

Is this glaze suitable for grilling as well?

Yes, the Maple Dijon glaze works wonderfully on grilled salmon too! Just apply it similarly and be attentive to prevent flare-ups from the sugars in the maple syrup.

Can I substitute the maple syrup with honey?

While honey will provide sweetness, maple syrup offers a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with Dijon mustard. However, honey can be used as an alternative if needed, but expect a slightly different taste profile.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork and have an opaque pink color throughout. Overcooking can cause dryness, so keep an eye on it especially given the sweetness of the glaze which can make it look caramelized quickly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is naturally gluten-free, as long as you check that your Dijon mustard does not contain any gluten-containing additives.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Maple Dijon Baked Salmon, it’s hard to go back to plain old fish dinners. The incredible balance of sweet and tangy flavors with the tender, flaky salmon creates a dish that feels both comforting and just a little bit special. It’s perfect for busy nights or impressing guests, so don’t hesitate to give it a whirl—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Maple Dijon Baked Salmon Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring a luscious glaze made from pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a delicious and healthy meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

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

Glaze

1/4 cup Pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Olive oil
2 cloves Garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Garnish & Serving

1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges, as needed

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the salmon.
Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Prepare Baking Sheet and Salmon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet skin-side down, then brush each fillet generously with the maple Dijon glaze, setting aside some glaze for later use.
Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through cooking, carefully brush the fillets with the reserved glaze to enhance flavor and moisture.
Rest and Garnish: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

You can use skinless salmon fillets if preferred, but skin-on helps keep the fish moist during baking.
Adjust the amount of maple syrup or Dijon mustard depending on your sweetness or tanginess preference.
Make sure not to overbake; salmon should flake easily but remain moist and tender.
For an extra touch of flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the glaze.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, healthy meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American