Description
This Easy Maple Sesame Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory maple syrup and soy sauce mixture, enhanced by fragrant sesame oil, garlic, and toasted sesame seeds. Quickly marinated and pan-seared to perfection, this dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that balances rich flavors with a simple preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Marinade
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), fresh or thawed wild-caught
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until fully combined to create a flavorful glaze.
- Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Let the salmon soak for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the sweet and savory flavors.
- Heat the pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface with a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the excess liquid. Place the fillets skin-side down in the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets over and pour the reserved marinade over the top. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the cooked salmon. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate the salmon for up to 15 minutes; longer marinating may affect the texture.
- Use wild-caught salmon for best flavor and sustainability.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon to retain moisture and tenderness.
- Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
