Grilled Salmon with Maple Glaze
A Pacific Northwest classic! Tender, flaky salmon grilled to perfection and brushed with a sweet and savory maple glaze. It's an elegant yet simple dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue, and ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Grill and Glaze
- b.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic to create the glaze. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the glaze in a separate small bowl for serving.
- d.Thoroughly clean the grill grates and use a paper towel dipped in high-smoke-point oil to grease them well. This is crucial to prevent sticking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the Salmon
- b.Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin and a good sear.
- c.Brush the fillets all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the First Side
- b.Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the hot, oiled grates.
- c.Close the grill lid and cook for 5-6 minutes. Avoid moving the fish. The skin should be crispy and release easily from the grates when it's ready to flip.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Flip, Glaze, and Finish Cooking
- b.Using a wide spatula, carefully flip the salmon fillets.
- c.Immediately brush the top (skin-side) of each fillet generously with the prepared maple glaze.
- d.Close the lid and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for well-done, or you can pull it off at 135°F (57°C) for medium, as it will continue to cook while resting.
- e.During the last minute of cooking, you can apply another light coat of glaze.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the grilled salmon to a platter and let it rest for 3-5 minutes.
- c.Drizzle with the reserved (uncontaminated) glaze and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For perfectly even cooking, let the salmon sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before grilling.
- 2Do not overcook the salmon. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; it should flake easily.
- 3Oiling the grill grates is the most important step to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.
- 4Patting the salmon dry with paper towels is essential for getting a good sear and crispy skin.
- 5For a smokier flavor, try grilling the salmon on a cedar plank. Soak the plank in water for at least an hour beforehand.
- 6Reserving a small amount of the glaze before it touches raw fish ensures you have a safe, clean sauce for serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Glaze
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the maple glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
Herbaceous FlavorHerbaceous Flavor
Stir 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill or parsley into the glaze just before serving for a fresh, bright taste.
Smoky Paprika RubSmoky Paprika Rub
Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the salt and pepper rub before grilling to enhance the smoky flavor.
Oven Baked MethodOven-Baked Method
If you don't have a grill, bake the salmon on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, applying the glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is a prime source of EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids linked to improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and better brain function.
Excellent Source of High-Quality Protein
Provides essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Boosts Brain Health
The combination of omega-3s and other nutrients in salmon supports cognitive function, memory, and may reduce the risk of age-related mental decline.
Rich in B Vitamins
Salmon is packed with B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12), which are crucial for energy production, controlling inflammation, and protecting heart and brain health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this is a very healthy dish. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and vitamin D. The maple glaze contains natural sugars, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.