Name: Maple-Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1 lb fresh asparagus; 1/3 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

When you think of a dish that combines elegance with sheer deliciousness, Maple-Glazed Salmon with Asparagus springs to mind. Imagine tender salmon fillets, kissed by a sweet and savory maple glaze, paired perfectly with crisp-tender asparagus. Savory Turkey Panini Pairing The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and the vibrant colors are like a work of art on your dinner plate.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. They entered the kitchen, their noses in the air, practically salivating at the scent of caramelized maple mingling with buttery salmon. It was a weeknight dinner that turned into a mini-celebration, leaving us all feeling like gourmet chefs. Bavarian Cream for Dessert Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an impressive date night, this recipe delivers that “wow” factor every time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Maple-Glazed Salmon with Asparagus comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
The sweet and savory glaze elevates the salmon’s natural flavors beautifully
Visually stunning, it’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate
Plus, it pairs well with various sides for endless meal options

The day I first served this dish, my family’s reactions were priceless; my kids were fighting over who got more asparagus! It turned into an unforgettable dinner filled with laughter and second helpings that left everyone smiling.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets to ensure tenderness and flavor; look for bright pink flesh without any unpleasant odor.
Asparagus: Select firm, vibrant green stalks; avoid limp ones for the best texture and taste.
Pure Maple Syrup: Opt for 100% pure maple syrup for authentic sweetness; skip the imitation syrups which lack depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness; this helps enhance the glaze. Orecchiette with Thyme Sauce.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential here; choose plump bulbs for maximum flavor impact and aroma.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness of salmon beautifully.
Pepper and Salt: Simple seasonings enhance all flavors; use freshly ground pepper for a little kick.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps keep everything moist during cooking while adding healthy fats.
Dijon Mustard: For that subtle tanginess which complements both salmon and maple syrup perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later. This step sets you up for success!

Prepare Your Salmon and Asparagus: Rinse your salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim the woody ends off your asparagus spears, ensuring they are vibrant and fresh.

Create That Glorious Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well-combined. You want it smooth enough to coat but thick enough to cling.

Coat Your Ingredients Lovingly: Lay your salmon fillets on one side of the baking sheet. Arrange asparagus on the other side and drizzle olive oil over both. Brush half of your glorious glaze generously onto each salmon piece.

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through cooking time, brush on more glaze for maximum flavor.

Enjoy diving into this delightful dish full of flavor! Cooking can be a joyful journey when shared around the table with loved ones. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Seafood Delight recipe.

You Must Know

This delightful maple-glazed salmon with asparagus not only pleases the palate but also brightens up your dinner table with its vibrant colors
The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or romantic dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the salmon and asparagus. Sear the salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet for a few minutes before transferring it to the oven. This ensures crispy skin and perfectly cooked fish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with different herbs like dill or rosemary for added flavor. You can swap asparagus for green beans or zucchini, and even experiment with orange juice instead of maple syrup for a citrus twist. Creamy Zucchini Noodles as a Side For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on it during the last few minutes
The glaze can be made ahead and stored, saving you time on busy evenings

Cooking this maple-glazed salmon always brings back memories of hosting my first dinner party, where my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper glazing.

What side dishes pair well with maple-glazed salmon?

Maple-glazed salmon pairs wonderfully with rice pilaf or quinoa salad. A fresh green salad also complements its flavors nicely, making for a balanced meal.

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The best way to check if your salmon is done is by using a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, gently flake the fish with a fork; it should be opaque and flake easily.