This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the salmon a glossy finish and irresistible taste. It’s gluten-free adaptable, high in protein, and pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Plus, it’s a no-fuss cleanup since everything bakes on one pan.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Salmon fillets (skin on or off)
Maple syrup
Soy sauce or tamari
Garlic, minced
Toasted sesame oil
Rice vinegar (optional for added tang)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions, sliced (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar if using.
Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush or spoon the maple sesame glaze evenly over each fillet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
For extra caramelization, broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 12–15 minutes Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
Honey Substitute: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Grilled Version: Grill the salmon over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side instead of baking.
Ginger Addition: Add grated fresh ginger to the marinade for added depth.
Vegetarian Twist: Use the glaze on tofu or tempeh instead of salmon.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave gently at low power to avoid drying out the salmon. This dish can also be enjoyed cold over salads or rice bowls. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the salmon may change.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before applying the glaze and baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
What sides go well with this salmon?
Steamed rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad pair perfectly with the flavors.
Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
Yes, marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours for deeper flavor, but it’s not required.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use skin-on salmon?
Yes, skin-on works well. Bake with the skin side down for easier serving.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
You can substitute with honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar in a pinch.
Can I cook this in a pan instead?
Yes, sear the salmon skin-side down first, then flip and glaze during the final minutes of cooking.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet and savory glaze is usually well-received by kids. You can adjust the garlic and omit spice for a milder taste.
Conclusion
Easy Maple Sesame Salmon is a simple yet elegant recipe that brings bold flavors to your table in just minutes. With its sweet, savory, and nutty profile, this dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Versatile, healthy, and beautifully balanced, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation
Easy Maple Sesame Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory blend of maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Baked until caramelized and flaky, it’s a perfect balance of umami and sweetness for any occasion.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:12–15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
1 tsp rice vinegar (optional)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar if using.
Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush or spoon the maple sesame glaze evenly over each fillet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
Use tamari for a gluten-free version.Marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor, though it’s not required.Add sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick.Swap maple syrup with honey or brown sugar if preferred.This dish also tastes great cold over salads or rice bowls.
