Maple Soy Glazed Salmon

Experience a burst of Asian-inspired flavors with this stunning Maple Soy Glazed Salmon. This 20-minute meal features succulent salmon fillets coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory glaze, served alongside fluffy jasmine rice and a medley of crisp, vibrant vegetables. It is the perfect solution for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet treat.

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The secret to this dish lies in the pan-searing technique, which creates a beautiful crust on the salmon before the glaze is added to thicken into a rich, flavorful syrup. Whether you are cooking for family or hosting a quick dinner for friends, this pescatarian-friendly dish is guaranteed to impress with its professional presentation and bold taste.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150 g each), skin-on or skinless
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp sliced green onions
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Step 3: Season the Fish

Season salmon fillets lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 3 minutes.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Flip salmon fillets. Pour the maple soy glaze over the salmon. Continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the fish, until salmon is just cooked through and the glaze is thick and glossy.

Step 6: Prepare Vegetables

Meanwhile, steam or sauté broccoli, snap peas, and bell pepper until crisp-tender (about 3–4 minutes). Season lightly with salt.

Step 7: Assemble

To serve, divide rice among bowls. Top with vegetables and glazed salmon. Drizzle any extra glaze from the pan over the top.

Step 8: Garnish

Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your large nonstick skillet is properly heated before adding the salmon to achieve a perfect sear. Using a spatula to gently flip the fillets will keep the fish intact while the glaze thickens around it.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a different kind of sweetness, you can substitute the maple syrup with honey. For those who enjoy more variety in their greens, try adding other quick-cooking vegetables like asparagus or thinly sliced carrots to the mix.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this dish in shallow bowls with extra lime wedges on the side to provide a fresh citrus kick. The toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions add a professional finishing touch that enhances both texture and flavor.

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With its vibrant colors and incredible depth of flavor, this Maple Soy Glazed Salmon is sure to become a staple in your home. It’s a nutritious, satisfying meal that proves you don't need a lot of time to create something truly spectacular.

Common Questions

→ Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey makes an excellent substitute for maple syrup in the glaze. Use the same amount (3 tablespoons) and adjust slightly to taste. Honey will provide a slightly different floral sweetness but still creates a beautiful glossy coating on the salmon.

→ What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Beyond broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers, you can use asparagus, carrots, snow peas, bok choy, or zucchini. Choose vegetables that cook quickly and maintain a pleasant crunch when steamed or lightly sautéed. The key is keeping them crisp-tender to contrast with the tender glazed fish.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

This dish works wonderfully for meal prep. Store the glazed salmon, rice, and vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the salmon to prevent drying out, and consider adding a splash of water to the rice before microwaving.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. The rest of the ingredients, including pure maple syrup, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger and garlic, are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm your ingredients meet your dietary needs.

→ How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Watch closely during the final minutes of glazing—the sauce should thicken and become glossy while the fish remains moist. Avoid overcooking, as salmon continues to cook slightly after being removed from heat.

→ Can I cook the salmon on a sheet pan instead?

Yes, sheet pan cooking works well for this preparation. Roast the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, brushing with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. The vegetables can roast on the same pan, though you may want to start them a few minutes earlier since they take slightly longer than the fish.