This maple mustard salmon recipe is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Made with just a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this maple mustard salmon because it’s easy, fast, and full of bold flavor with minimal effort. The glaze is a beautiful harmony of tangy Dijon mustard and sweet maple syrup, caramelizing over the salmon as it bakes to create a golden, sticky finish. It’s nutritious, crowd-pleasing, and pairs well with everything from roasted veggies to rice or salad.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- Dijon mustard
- Pure maple syrup
- Garlic (minced)
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon or brush the maple mustard glaze evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Bake for 1215 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 1215 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Variations
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Grilled version: Grill the salmon over medium heat for 45 minutes per side, brushing with glaze as it cooks.
- Sheet pan dinner: Add sliced veggies like green beans, asparagus, or baby potatoes to the tray and roast with the salmon.
- Honey substitute: Use honey in place of maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
- Whole grain mustard: Swap some or all of the Dijon with whole grain mustard for extra texture.
storage/reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 810 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before adding the glaze and baking.
What kind of salmon is best?
Any fresh or thawed fillets work well—Atlantic, sockeye, or coho. Thicker fillets may require a bit more baking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your Dijon mustard and other condiments are gluten-free.
Can I marinate the salmon?
Yes, marinate for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor, but it’s not required since the glaze is very flavorful on its own.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey is a great alternative. It will make the glaze slightly thicker and a bit less earthy.
Do I need to remove the skin?
No, you can leave it on. It crisps up nicely in the oven and can easily be removed after cooking if desired.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 810 minutes, depending on thickness.
What sides go well with maple mustard salmon?
Try roasted veggies, wild rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a crisp green salad.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 125130°F for medium doneness.
Can I double the glaze?
Yes, and it’s a great idea if you want extra for drizzling over your side dishes.
Conclusion
This maple mustard salmon is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The sweet and tangy glaze brings out the richness of the salmon while keeping it juicy and tender. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is a reliable, tasty winner every time.
Description
This maple mustard salmon is sweet, tangy, and perfectly roasted with a golden glaze. It’s made with just a few pantry staples and comes together in under 30 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights or a fuss-free date night dinner.
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
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In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, whole grain mustard (if using), olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Pat salmon fillets dry and place skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
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Spoon the maple mustard mixture evenly over each fillet.
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Bake for 1215 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
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Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
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Don’t overcook the salmon — it should still be moist and flaky inside.
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Great served with roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.
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You can also grill or air fry this recipe — just reduce cook time slightly.
