Description
This Maple Glazed Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets pan-seared to perfection with a sweet and savory maple syrup glaze. The glaze combines maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of lemon for a deliciously balanced flavor. Perfect for a quick, elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is complemented by a buttery glaze that enhances the natural richness of the salmon.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 pound fresh salmon
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- Chopped scallions (optional, for serving)
Maple Glaze 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Cut the salmon into 4 equal pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, grated ginger, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth (or water), and cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Heat the Pan: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the pan and fats to heat thoroughly for a few minutes until shimmering.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon pieces skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes undisturbed to develop a crispy skin. Reduce the heat to medium, flip the salmon carefully, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is almost cooked through but still moist inside.
- Glaze the Salmon: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour the prepared maple glaze sauce evenly into the skillet, distributing it around and between the salmon pieces. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for approximately 20-30 seconds, then remove the pan from the heat to prevent burning. Flip the salmon once more and spoon the thickened sauce over the top to coat.
- Serve: Plate the glazed salmon immediately. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired and optionally squeeze additional fresh lemon juice over the top. Enjoy the crispy salmon skin or peel it off based on your preference.
Notes
- Allowing the salmon to come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking.
- Patting the salmon dry helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Be careful not to burn the maple glaze; remove the pan from heat as soon as the sauce thickens.
- Use fresh ginger for the best flavor, but ground ginger can be substituted if necessary.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
