Maple-Mustard Salmon
A simple yet elegant baked salmon recipe featuring a sweet and tangy glaze of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's a perfect healthy weeknight main course.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven and prepare the salmon.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the glaze stick.
TIPBringing the salmon to room temperature for 10 minutes before baking can help it cook more evenly.Whisk together the maple-mustard glaze.
In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
Glaze and bake the salmon.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Brush the maple-mustard glaze evenly over the top and sides of each fillet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- For food safety, ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
TIPFor a slightly caramelized top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning.Garnish and serve hot.
Remove the salmon from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overbake the salmon, as it can become dry. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
- 2Patting the salmon dry with a paper towel is a key step for getting a nice texture and helping the glaze adhere.
- 3This glaze also works wonderfully on chicken or pork.
- 4For best flavor, use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
- 5Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
To reduce sugar, use a sugar-free maple syrup substitute. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.
quickQuick
For an even faster meal, cook the salmon in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your brand of Dijon mustard is certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a milder mustard and slightly more maple syrup to appeal to younger palates. Ensure there are no bones in the fillets.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is one of the best sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health.
Excellent Source of Protein
Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair, bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
High in B Vitamins
Salmon is packed with B vitamins, which are vital for energy production, creating and repairing DNA, and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy dish. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. The glaze uses minimal oil and the maple syrup provides flavor with moderate sugar.