Maple Glazed Salmon is a simple, healthy recipe combining sweet and savory flavors. This quick skillet-cooked salmon recipe features a rich maple syrup glaze with hints of garlic, ginger, and lemon. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s a protein-packed dish that pairs well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. With crispy skin and tender, flaky fish, this recipe is an ideal choice for those seeking easy, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 1 pound fresh salmon, cut into 4 pieces
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Optional for Serving:
- Chopped scallions
- Extra lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
Remove the salmon from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the salmon pieces dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper. - Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth. - Cook the Salmon:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium, flip the salmon, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until nearly done. - Add the Sauce:
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour the sauce into the skillet, distributing it between the salmon pieces. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken for 20-30 seconds before removing the skillet from heat. Flip the salmon back to skin-side down and spoon the sauce over the top. - Serve:
Transfer the salmon to plates and garnish with chopped scallions if desired. Squeeze on fresh lemon juice for added brightness. Serve immediately for the best flavor and crispy skin.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with savory soy sauce and zingy ginger.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Tips
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon for a perfectly crispy skin.
- Let the sauce thicken off-heat to prevent burning.
- Use fresh ginger and lemon juice for the best flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute honey or brown sugar for maple syrup if needed.
- Replace salmon with trout, cod, or another firm fish.
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before using.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or flour works as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Add a side of sautéed greens, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
Perfectly sweet, tangy, and savory, this maple-glazed salmon will elevate any meal with its effortless elegance.
Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
Salmon:
1 pound fresh salmon, cut into 4 pieces
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
Sauce:
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Optional for Serving:
Chopped scallions
Extra lemon juice
Directions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Remove the salmon from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the salmon pieces dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium, flip the salmon, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until nearly done.
- Add the Sauce:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour the sauce into the skillet, distributing it between the salmon pieces. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken for 20-30 seconds before removing the skillet from heat. Flip the salmon back to skin-side down and spoon the sauce over the top.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salmon to plates and garnish with chopped scallions if desired. Squeeze on fresh lemon juice for added brightness. Serve immediately for the best flavor and crispy skin.
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