Maple-Mustard Glazed Salmon
Flaky, tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet and tangy maple-mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler. Ready in under 25 minutes, this dish delivers a perfect balance of rich, buttery fish with a glossy, finger-licking finish. A weeknight hero that feels fancy enough for company.
For 4 servings
- prep
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan.
1.Position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler element.2.Preheat the broiler to high.3.Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly brush with a little olive oil. - mix
Whisk together the maple-mustard glaze.
1.In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.2.Whisk until smooth and emulsified. Set aside.TIPThe glaze should coat the back of a spoon. If it seems too thin, let it sit for a moment; if too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water. - prep
Season the salmon fillets.
1.Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels.2.Arrange them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.3.Brush the tops lightly with the remaining olive oil.4.Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.TIPDrying the fish is crucial. It helps the glaze stick and promotes a nice caramelized exterior instead of steaming. - bake · ~9 min
Broil the salmon with the glaze.
1.Spoon or brush the maple-mustard glaze evenly over the top of each fillet, reserving a little for a second coat.2.Place the baking sheet under the broiler.3.Broil for 4 minutes, then remove and brush with the remaining glaze.4.Return to the broiler and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the glaze is bubbling and caramelized and the fish flakes easily with a fork.TIPKeep a close eye on the salmon. Broilers vary in intensity, and the sugar in the maple syrup can burn quickly. Look for an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium doneness. - rest · ~3 min
Rest the salmon briefly.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the salmon rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. The residual heat will finish any light cooking and the glaze will set.
TIPResting allows the juices to redistribute back into the fillet, guaranteeing a moist bite. - garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
1.Transfer the fillets to serving plates using a thin spatula.2.Scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top.3.Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat the salmon very dry before glazing; moisture is the enemy of caramelization.
- 2For a thicker crust, apply a second coat of glaze halfway through broiling.
- 3Use an instant-read thermometer; pull the salmon at 130-135°F for perfectly tender flesh.
- 4Let the salmon rest 2-3 minutes after broiling so the glaze sets and the juices redistribute.
- 5Line your baking sheet with foil for effortless cleanup—the sugary glaze can stick stubbornly.
- 6If your broiler runs hot, watch the salmon closely after minute 3 to prevent burning the maple syrup.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy sriracha-maple
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the glaze for a sweet-heat kick that complements the salmon's richness.
herb crustedHerb-crusted
Mix 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill or thyme into the glaze before brushing; the herbs add a fresh, aromatic layer.
low sugarLow-sugar
Replace 2 tablespoons of maple syrup with a sugar-free maple substitute or use just 1 tablespoon of honey; the glaze will be less sticky but still flavorful.
citrus twistCitrus-twist
Swap the lemon wedges for orange segments and add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze for a brighter, sweeter citrus note.
garlic rosemaryGarlic-rosemary
Crush 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary with the garlic and add it to the glaze; rosemary pairs beautifully with maple and mustard.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is one of the best natural sources of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health and help reduce inflammation.
High-Quality Protein
Each serving provides a generous amount of complete protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety.
Source of Selenium
Salmon is a rich source of selenium, an antioxidant mineral that supports thyroid function and protects cells from damage.
Contains Vitamin D
Wild or farmed salmon naturally provides vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune regulation.
Low in Saturated Fat
This dish uses heart-healthy olive oil and lean salmon, keeping saturated fat low while delivering satisfying flavor.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the skin helps hold the fillet together during broiling. If using skinless, brush the baking sheet with extra oil and handle gently.
