This brown sugar glazed salmon is a tasty delight that’s easy to make! With its sweet and sticky glaze, it brings a delicious balance of flavors that everyone will love.
Cooking salmon has never been this fun! I like to serve it with rice or veggies, and it always impresses my guests. Who knew fish could be this fancy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is the star here. You can use other fish like trout or tilapia, but the cooking time may vary. If you’re looking for a meatier texture, try swordfish.
Brown Sugar: This gives the glaze its sweet and sticky goodness. Feel free to swap it with light or dark brown sugar, depending on what you have. Honey or maple syrup can work too, but they may change the flavor a bit.
Soy Sauce: It adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium, consider using a low-sodium version. Tamari is a great gluten-free option as well!
Dijon Mustard: This gives a zing to the glaze. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a splash of vinegar can work to bring that tangy taste.
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but here are my tips! First off, always start by preheating the oven to ensure even cooking. When you place the salmon, make sure it’s on a lined baking sheet to make cleanup easier.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time! Salmon usually needs about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- If you like that caramelized touch on your glaze, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but stay close and watch it.
- Let it rest a minute before serving to keep the juices in!
With these tips, your salmon will be the highlight of any meal! Enjoy!
Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off as preferred
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salmon dish in about 25 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your salmon cooks evenly. While it preheats, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup later on!
2. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved and everything is well combined. This sweet and savory glaze is what makes the salmon so delicious!
3. Arrange the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on your lined baking sheet, skin side down if the skin is on. Make sure they are spaced out so they cook evenly.
4. Brush on the Glaze:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously apply the brown sugar glaze over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy—this glaze is what gives the salmon its amazing flavor!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Now it’s time to bake! Put the salmon in the preheated oven and cook for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. For that extra caramelized touch, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes, just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, carefully take the salmon out of the oven and let it rest for a minute. This helps keep the juices inside. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your brown sugar glazed salmon immediately, garnished with lemon wedges to add a zesty touch. Pair it with green beans, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this sticky, sweet, and savory dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can also use fish like trout or even tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so always check for doneness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook it, as this can dry the fish out.
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to a day ahead! Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken or separate while sitting.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like some heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. For a more pronounced flavor, try mixing in some sriracha or adding fresh minced chili to the recipe!
