If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, then you absolutely need to try this Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe. It’s one of those effortless meals that manages to taste gourmet while being straightforward enough for a weekday dinner. The rich, flaky salmon drenched in a luscious maple glaze, paired with the fresh crunch of almonds and the vibrant bite of green onions, creates a combination that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, the hint of Dijon mustard and soy sauce adds layers of flavor you might not expect, making each bite memorable and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe is simple but essential, bringing its own magic to the final dish. From the natural sweetness of maple syrup to the delicate texture of almonds, these components come together in perfect harmony.
- 2 pounds salmon fillets: Fresh, high-quality salmon is the star that ensures tender, flavorful results.
- ⅛ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel sweetness to enhance the glaze.
- ⅛ cup maple syrup: The key ingredient that lends its signature warm sweetness and beautiful glaze.
- 1½ tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce: Grounds the sweetness and adds a gentle umami depth.
- ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang to balance the sugars and brighten the flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper: Just enough to add a touch of spice without overpowering.
- Almonds, chopped or sliced (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and nuttiness as a finishing touch.
- Green onion, chopped (optional): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, mild onion flavor to finish the dish.
- Cooked rice: The perfect neutral base to soak up the glaze and balance the salmon.
- Broccoli: A bright, healthy vegetable that pairs beautifully with salmon both in flavor and nutrition.
How to Make Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Salmon
Begin by spraying a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks during baking. Then, arrange the salmon fillets evenly in the pan, placing them skin-side down if the skin is still attached. This helps keep the fish moist and makes it easier to serve later.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, reduced-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This glaze is where all the magic happens – it’s sweet with a bit of tang and savory undertones that will soak beautifully into the salmon.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon with Glaze
Pour your freshly mixed glaze evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure each piece is generously coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and that gorgeous sticky-sweet finish everyone loves.
Step 4: Arrange Sides in the Baking Pan
If you want a one-pan meal, this is the perfect time to add fresh broccoli florets to one side of the pan. You can also place cooked rice around the salmon on the other side. This method lets the flavors mingle slightly during baking and keeps cleanup minimal.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Cover the pan with foil and place it in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake thick fillets for 15 to 20 minutes, or start checking after 10 minutes if your fillets are thin. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The foil keeps the moisture in, so your salmon will stay tender and juicy.
Step 6: Add Almonds and Green Onions, Then Serve
After removing the salmon from the oven, sprinkle chopped or sliced almonds and chopped green onions over the top. These add that final layer of texture, flavor, and color, turning a simple salmon dish into a stunning plate that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions and sliced almonds aren’t just optional toppings—they elevate the dish with fresh brightness and a satisfying crunch. If you want to add a little more, a wedge of lemon on the side adds a citrusy zing that complements the maple glaze wonderfully.
Side Dishes
While rice and broccoli are classic companions to this Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe, consider roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad for variety. These sides balance the rich glaze and provide contrasting textures that make each bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate individual salmon fillets over a bed of wild rice pilaf, sprinkle with toasted almonds and green onions, and drizzle a little extra warmed maple glaze on the plate for presentation. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a beautiful, restaurant-worthy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, and the flavors often meld even more deliciously after sitting overnight.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. For best taste and texture, consume within one month.
Reheating
To reheat your Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe, gently warm it in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps the salmon moist without overcooking. Avoid microwaving to maintain the glaze’s texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh maple syrup instead of the store-bought kind?
Absolutely! Fresh maple syrup adds a bright, pure sweetness that works beautifully in this recipe and can enhance the glaze’s depth even more. Just be sure to use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup.
What type of salmon works best for this recipe?
Wild-caught salmon is ideal for flavor and sustainability, but farmed salmon also works nicely. Look for thick, even fillets to ensure even cooking and a juicy result.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before pouring it over your salmon to recombine any separated ingredients.
Is it necessary to use almonds and green onions?
While almonds and green onions add wonderful texture and color, you can leave them out if you have allergies or preferences. The salmon will still be delicious thanks to the vibrant glaze.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard if I don’t have any?
You can replace Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or a small amount of prepared horseradish. Both options will add the needed tanginess to balance the glaze.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and elegance of this Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe. It delivers incredible flavor and texture without fuss, making it a fast favorite in my household and one I’m sure you’ll love too. Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to an easy yet elegant meal, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and savor every melt-in-your-mouth bite!
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Maple Glazed Salmon with Almonds and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious and easy Maple Glazed Salmon recipe featuring a sweet and savory glaze made with maple syrup, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Baked to perfection with optional sides of broccoli and rice, this dish makes a healthy and flavorful meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Salmon and Glaze
- 2 pounds salmon fillets
- ⅛ cup brown sugar
- ⅛ cup maple syrup
- 1½ tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
Optional Toppings and Sides
- Almonds, chopped or sliced (optional)
- Green onion, chopped (optional)
- Cooked rice
- Broccoli florets
Instructions
- Prepare the baking pan: Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon fillets evenly in the pan, skin-side down if the skin is still on.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, reduced-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Coat the salmon: Pour the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the sweet and savory mixture.
- Add vegetables and rice (optional): If desired, place fresh broccoli florets on one side of the pan and arrange cooked rice on the other side around the salmon fillets.
- Bake the salmon: Cover the pan with foil and bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake thick fillets for 15–20 minutes, checking thinner fillets after 10 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Finish and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and top with chopped or sliced almonds and chopped green onions if you like. Serve immediately alongside the rice and broccoli.
Notes
- Adjust baking time based on fillet thickness to avoid overcooking.
- Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to control salt content.
- Almonds and green onions are optional but add great texture and flavor.
- Serve with your choice of side vegetables or grains if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
