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Maple Pecan Salmon Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

This Maple Pecan Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a rich, sweet, and slightly spicy maple syrup glaze infused with buttery pecans. It's an elegant yet simple dish that combines the natural flavors of salmon with a delightful balance of sweetness and nuts, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, cut into four equal pieces
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper

Maple Pecan Glaze

  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 1 Tbsp butter
  • 1 Tbsp brown mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ½ cup pecans, crushed

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough to cook the salmon evenly and lock in moisture.
  2. Prepare and Bake Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin side down on a greased or foil-lined baking pan. Brush each piece with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Make Maple Pecan Glaze: While the salmon is baking, combine maple syrup, brown mustard, butter, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the crushed pecans and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to incorporate flavors and soften the nuts.
  4. Glaze and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and spoon the warm maple pecan glaze generously over each fillet. Serve immediately to enjoy the flavorful contrast of tender salmon and sweet, nutty glaze.

Notes

  • For crispier salmon skin, broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes of baking instead of baking fully at 425°F.
  • Use freshly crushed pecans to maintain maximum flavor and texture.
  • If preferred less sweet, reduce the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons.
  • Leftover glazed salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
  • Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.