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Easy Maple Sesame Salmon Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

This Easy Maple Sesame Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets marinated in a flavorful blend of pure maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. The salmon is baked to perfection, topped with crunchy sesame seeds, and served with a luscious maple-soy glaze. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors and a hint of nuttiness from the sesame oil and seeds, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets, skin removed (about 1.5–2 lbs / 680–908g total)

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup (170g / 120ml) pure maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Topping & Garnish

  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds (around 1 tablespoon per salmon fillet)
  • Optional: chopped scallion for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade and marinate the salmon: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until fully combined. Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish, sealed container, or zip-top bag, then pour about half of the marinade over the fillets. Turn the salmon to coat thoroughly and cover or seal.
  2. Refrigerate to marinate: Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes and up to 8–9 hours. Keep the remaining marinade covered and refrigerated for later use in making the glaze.
  3. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated salmon fillets on the sheet and sprinkle sesame seeds evenly atop each fillet. Discard the marinade used for the fish.
  4. Bake the salmon: Bake the salmon fillets until they are opaque in the center and flake easily with a fork. This will take approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness (about 10 minutes per inch of thickness). The internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). For crispier edges, broil on high for the last 2 minutes.
  5. Make the glaze: While the salmon bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan or skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a glaze consistency.
  6. Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired, and serve the salmon warm with the maple-soy glaze drizzled on top or on the side.

Notes

  • Marinating the salmon longer (up to 8–9 hours) enhances the flavor but even 15 minutes is effective for quick meals.
  • Use skinless salmon fillets for even cooking and ease of eating, but skin-on can be used if preferred.
  • For gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
  • To get crispier edges without broiling, you can use a convection oven setting if available.
  • Leftover glaze can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days.