Grilled Maple Salmon Recipe

This Grilled Maple Salmon recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers! Infused with the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup, savory soy sauce, and aromatic sesame oil, this grilled salmon offers an irresistible flavor profile. Ideal for a healthy and easy dinner, this maple glazed salmon is cooked to perfection, creating a crispy, caramelized exterior with a tender, flaky inside. With a quick marinade and simple grilling steps, this maple salmon recipe is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Topped with a homemade maple glaze and fresh green onions, this recipe is a flavorful and elegant way to enjoy salmon. Healthy grilled salmon never tasted so good!

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup real maple syrup
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed or finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 to 2 1/2 lbs salmon fillet, cut into 6 (1-inch thick) portions
• 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

How to Make Grilled Maple Salmon:

1. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 pressed garlic cloves, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. For convenience, you can also combine these ingredients in a large zip-lock bag.
2. Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a large zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over the fish. Seal the bag, making sure to remove excess air. Toss gently to coat the fillets in the marinade. Refrigerate and marinate for 45 minutes, flipping the bag halfway through to ensure even coating.
3. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs for safety.
4. Grill the salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade for the glaze). Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Carefully flip the fillets and continue grilling until done.
5. Make the glaze: While the salmon is grilling, transfer the reserved marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, whisking constantly for 3-4 minutes, until it begins to thicken into a glaze.
6. Serve: Brush the grilled salmon with the thickened maple-soy glaze and garnish with finely chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips

• Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for the best results. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill.
• Marination: For even more flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 1 hour, but don’t marinate for too long as the soy sauce can overpower the fish.
• Flipping the Salmon: Use a wide spatula or tongs to carefully flip the salmon to avoid breaking the fillets.

Variations and Substitutions

• Salmon Alternative: While this recipe calls for salmon, you can also use other fish like trout or halibut for a different flavor.
• Sweetener Substitute: If you prefer a different sweetness profile, you can substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

How long should I marinate the salmon?
Marinate the salmon for at least 45 minutes. You can marinate it for up to 1 hour, but avoid marinating for longer as the soy sauce might overpower the delicate flavor of the fish.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair grilled maple salmon with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
• Grilled Veggies: Grill vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers alongside the salmon for a colorful, nutritious side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled maple salmon is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with a crispy, charred exterior and tender, juicy interior. The maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness that’s balanced by the umami-rich soy sauce, while the sesame oil brings a depth of flavor to the dish. The addition of a homemade glaze elevates the taste, making this dish a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or making a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.