Description

This Easy Maple Sesame Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets marinated in a sweet and savory blend of pure maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Topped with crunchy sesame seeds and finished with a rich maple glaze, this oven-baked dish is quick to prepare and delivers perfect balance of flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

4 salmon fillets, skin removed (about 2 lbs total)

Marinade

1/3 cup pure maple syrup
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
2 Tablespoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic

Topping and Garnish

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

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Instructions

Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish, sealable container, or zip-top bag. In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this marinade over the salmon, making sure each fillet is thoroughly coated. Cover the dish, container, or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 8–9 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Bake the Salmon: Arrange the marinated salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each fillet evenly with sesame seeds. Reserve the leftover marinade for later use. Bake the salmon for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness—approximately 10 minutes per 1-inch thickness at the thickest part—until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For crispier edges, you can broil the salmon on high for the last 3 minutes.
Make the Glaze: Pour the used marinade into a small saucepan or skillet. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken into a glaze.
Finish and Serve: Remove the cooked salmon from the oven. Drizzle the thickened maple glaze over the fillets and garnish with chopped scallions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful maple sesame salmon.

Notes

This dish is both quick to prepare and packed with delicious, balanced flavors.
The reserved marinade reduces into a savory-sweet glaze that perfectly complements the salmon.
To ensure salmon cooks evenly, measure the thickest part of the fillet for accurate timing.
Broiling for a few minutes adds a pleasing crispness to the edges without drying out the fish.
Can be served with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (about 6 oz)
Calories: 370 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg