Savory Maple-Glazed Salmon Delight
Indulge in the rich and flavorful fusion of maple syrup and fresh ginger in this Savory Maple-Glazed Salmon Delight. Salmon, my favorite 'meat', is the perfect canvas for this sweet and umami-infused glaze. Methodically prepared to maintain its moist and tender texture, this dish is an exquisite choice for a healthy dinner, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. A sprinkle of scallions and toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch, making it not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
maple syrup
3 tablespoons (none)
soy sauce
2 tablespoons (none)
grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon (grated)
cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons (dissolved in 1 tablespoon water)
salmon fillets
4 (skin-side down)
scallion
1 (sliced thin (white part plus green portion up to 3 inches))
toasted sliced almonds
1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, grated ginger, and the cornstarch that has been dissolved in water until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3
Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down in a shallow baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
4
Pour the prepared maple glaze over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are generously coated.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, basting halfway through cooking to enhance the flavor.
6
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with sliced scallions and toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should I bake the salmon at?
The salmon should be baked in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C).
How long does it take to cook Savory Maple-Glazed Salmon Delight?
The salmon typically takes 15-18 minutes to bake, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
What are the main ingredients in the glaze?
The glaze consists of maple syrup, soy sauce, grated fresh ginger, and cornstarch dissolved in water.
Should the salmon be cooked with the skin on?
Yes, the recipe instructions specify arranging the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork after baking for 15-18 minutes.
Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?
Cornstarch is dissolved in water and added to the glaze to help it thicken and coat the fish properly.
What garnishes are recommended for this dish?
The dish is garnished with thinly sliced scallions and toasted sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
Is the ginger used in this recipe fresh or dried?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of grated fresh ginger.
What is the purpose of basting the salmon halfway through?
Basting the salmon halfway through the cooking process helps to enhance the flavor and keep the fish moist.
Can I substitute the maple syrup with something else?
While maple syrup provides a specific flavor, you could potentially use honey or agave, though the taste profile will change.
How many salmon fillets does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 4 salmon fillets.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
Standard soy sauce works well, but you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you are monitoring your salt intake.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious dinner choice.
Do I need to let the salmon rest after cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven.
How do I prepare the scallions?
The scallion should be sliced thin, including the white part and the green portion up to 3 inches.
Can I skip the toasted almonds?
Yes, the toasted sliced almonds are optional but recommended for a delightful crunch.
What side dishes go well with this salmon?
This salmon pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, with a cooking time of under 20 minutes, it is an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Does this dish have an Asian influence?
Yes, the combination of soy sauce and fresh ginger gives the glaze a delicious Asian-inspired flavor profile.
How do I dissolve the cornstarch?
Mix 1.5 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth before adding it to the glaze.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before starting the recipe for the best results.
Is the glaze spicy?
The glaze is savory and sweet; the ginger provides a warm zip but it is not considered spicy.
Should I cover the baking dish with foil?
The recipe does not specify covering the dish, as baking uncovered helps the glaze caramelize on the fish.
Can I use ginger paste instead of fresh grated ginger?
Yes, ginger paste can be used as a convenient 1:1 substitute for freshly grated ginger.
What makes this salmon moist?
The combination of the maple glaze, the high baking temperature, and basting halfway through helps maintain a moist texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free tamari instead of standard soy sauce.
How much maple syrup is used in the glaze?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of maple syrup.
Can I grill this salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, you can grill it, though you may need to adjust the timing and heat to ensure the glaze doesn't burn.
What part of the scallion is used for garnish?
Use the white part plus the green portion up to 3 inches, sliced thin.
How do I toast the sliced almonds?
You can toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until they become golden and fragrant.