Description

Craving a quick, healthy meal that’s packed with sweet and savory flavors? What if you could marinate salmon fillets in a maple-soy glaze, bake them with a sesame seed crust, and serve them in under 40 minutes? Easy Maple Sesame Salmon is your answer—a 5-star-rated dish from 11 reviews, perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests with minimal effort

Ingredients

Here’s the lineup for 4 servings (1 fillet each). Each ingredient plays a key role, with swaps for flexibility.

Salmon fillets (4, skin removed, about 2 lbs total): Tender, flaky protein with rich flavor. Sub: Trout, cod, or tofu for vegetarian (adjust cooking time).
Pure maple syrup (1/3 cup): Adds natural sweetness and sticky glaze. Sub: Honey or agave nectar.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings salty, umami depth. Sub: Tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos (low-sodium).
Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Provides nutty, aromatic flavor. Sub: Olive oil or avocado oil (less intense flavor).
Garlic (2 teaspoons minced): Enhances savory warmth. Sub: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Sesame seeds (1/4 cup, 1 tablespoon per fillet): Add crunch and nutty flavor. Sub: Poppy seeds or chopped almonds.
Optional garnish: Chopped scallions for fresh, mild onion flavor. Sub: Chives, parsley, or cilantro.

These ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, creating a wholesome, flavorful dish

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Instructions

Ready to start? You’ll need a baking dish or sealable container, a baking sheet, a small saucepan, and a whisk. These steps are simple, with tips for success.

Marinate the salmon: Place 4 salmon fillets (skin removed) in a baking dish, sealable container, or zipped-top bag. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup maple syrup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons minced garlic. Pour over the salmon, coating thoroughly. Cover or seal and refrigerate for 15 minutes (or up to 8-9 hours for deeper flavor). Tip: Flip fillets halfway through marinating for even coverage.
Preheat oven: Preheat to 375°F (191°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a silicone baking mat. Tip: Foil makes cleanup easier.
Bake the salmon: Place marinated fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon sesame seeds. Reserve the marinade for the glaze. Bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness (about 10 minutes per 1-inch thickness at the thickest part), or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For crispier edges, broil on high for the last 3 minutes. Tip: Check thinner fillets at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Reduce the glaze: Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan or skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; boil to ensure safety since marinade touched raw fish.
Serve: Plate the salmon, drizzle with thickened glaze, and garnish with optional chopped scallions. Tip: Spoon glaze generously for extra flavor.