This Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon is a treat! It’s simple to make and combines sweet and savory flavors that make your taste buds happy.
The glaze gives the salmon a lovely caramelized finish that is hard to resist. I love serving it with some rice and veggies for a perfect dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is the star here! You can also use skin-on or skinless fillets depending on your preference. If salmon isn’t available, trout can make a good substitute, as it’s also rich and flavorful.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use coconut sugar or honey, though the flavor will change slightly.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce lends a savory element. For a gluten-free option, try tamari. If you’re watching sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works as a good alternative.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you prefer, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can be used, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh squeezed juice has the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will suffice, but fresh is always preferred for the bright taste.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon to the right doneness is key for a tasty dish. Here are tips to help you out:
- Start with room temperature salmon. If salmon has been refrigerated, let it sit for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness at 10-12 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque appearance.
- If you love a crispy exterior, consider broiling for the last minute or two, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Trust your instincts! If you’re unsure, it’s often better to undercook slightly as the salmon can continue to cook a bit after removing it from the oven.
Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Including marination time, you should plan for about 30-50 minutes total, making it a quick and easy meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth mixture.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Put the salmon fillets into a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven:
While the salmon is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to help with cleanup later on.
4. Prepare for Baking:
After marinating, take the salmon out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade. Set aside the leftover marinade for basting later. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle or spoon some of the reserved marinade over the top of each fillet.
5. Bake the Salmon:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. After that, take the fillets out and brush on some more marinade, then return to the oven. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized and sticky. For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end, but be sure to watch carefully to avoid burning!
6. Serve It Up:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve it with lemon slices. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, quinoa, or your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your flavorful, sweet and savory Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is the traditional choice, you can also use trout or even halibut. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish you choose, as lighter fish may cook faster.
How Long Can I Marinate the Salmon?
You can marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes for the best flavor. If you leave it longer than that, the acid from the lemon juice and soy sauce could start to break down the fish, resulting in a mushy texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This can enhance the flavors even more as they meld together.
