This Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon is a treat that brings sweetness and a hint of spice all in one dish. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor!
Not gonna lie, the glaze makes this salmon taste like a superstar! Serve it up with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s ready to impress without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen fillets if that’s what you have on hand. I recommend skin-on salmon for added flavor and moisture, but skinless works too!
Brown Sugar: This gives the glaze its sweetness. If you’re out, you can use white sugar, but the flavor might be slightly less rich. Coconut sugar is a great substitute if you’re looking for something less processed.
Soy Sauce: For those who need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead! It’s a great alternative that keeps the same umami flavor. You can also experiment with low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt.
Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard is a decent substitute if that’s what you have. Just remember, it’s milder and less tangy than Dijon, so adjust to taste.
Olive Oil: While I like olive oil for its flavor, any neutral oil works well, like canola or vegetable oil. You can also use sesame oil for a nuttier taste.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Glazed Salmon?
Getting that lovely glaze on your salmon is about the right balance of heat and timing. Here are steps to ensure a great finish:
- Mix the glaze ingredients well; make sure the sugar dissolves for a smooth coating.
- Generously brush the glaze on the salmon before baking, and reserve some glaze for the end for a flavorful top coat.
- Watch your salmon as it cooks! Bake it until it just flakes with a fork, then broil for the last couple of minutes to caramelize the glaze. Be careful—this can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Let the salmon rest a minute after cooking. This helps the glaze set and makes it easier to serve.
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Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional for extra flavor)
- Sliced green onions or chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious salmon dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook, plus a few extra minutes for broiling. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and warm. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for a hassle-free cleanup later.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and ginger (if you’re using it). This will be your tasty glaze!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Dab the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and lightly sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. Then, place your fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin.
4. Glaze the Fillets:
Generously brush the salmon with the glaze you made earlier. Make sure to set aside a little glaze for later to add more flavor!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the salmon in the oven and let it bake for about 10-12 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork—perfectly cooked!
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you want a caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil and let the salmon broil for 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning! Brush some of the reserved glaze on the top during broiling.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Take the salmon out of the oven and let it sit for a minute. Garnish with sliced green onions or chives and sprinkle on some fresh black pepper for an added kick.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delightful Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon hot! Pair it with steamed rice and sautéed greens or any of your favorite vegetables to complete the meal.
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in this beautifully glazed salmon!
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Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water until defrosted. Pat it dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar as a substitute, but for a similar flavor, try mixing one cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. Coconut sugar is also a great alternative for a less processed option!
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon?
Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. A side salad or sautéed greens complements the dish nicely and adds a touch of freshness!
