⁠Maple Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts

Introduction

Maple Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts is a delicious and wholesome meal that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. The salmon is tender, flaky, and infused with a rich maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully during roasting. Paired with roasted Brussels sprouts, which develop a nutty flavor and crispy edges, this dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful.

I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and elegant, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The combination of natural sweetness from maple syrup, tang from Dijon mustard, and the savory depth of garlic and soy sauce creates a glaze that elevates the salmon without overpowering it. Plus, Brussels sprouts roasted alongside the fish absorb some of the glaze, making every bite irresistible.

This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves healthy, balanced meals that don’t compromise on flavor. It’s visually appealing, packed with protein and vitamins, and the flavors are sophisticated yet comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The glaze is sticky and flavorful, creating a perfect crust on the salmon, while the Brussels sprouts add texture and earthiness. It’s one of those dishes where every component complements the other.

Another reason I love it is its versatility. You can roast everything on a single sheet pan, which makes cleanup easy, or prepare it in separate pans for perfect caramelization. It’s healthy, packed with omega-3s, and doesn’t require complicated steps, yet it feels indulgent.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Perfectly balanced flavors: Sweet, savory, and earthy in every bite.
• Healthy and nutritious: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.
• Quick and simple: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Impressive presentation: Vibrant colors make it suitable for dinner parties.
• Minimal cleanup: One-pan roasting method optional.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Healthy

Ingredients

For the Maple Glaze:

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Salmon and Brussels Sprouts:

• 4 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each), skin on or off
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or thyme

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven: 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Brussels sprouts: Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Prepare salmon: Pat salmon dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Brush glaze generously over each fillet.
5. Roast: Place salmon on the baking sheet with Brussels sprouts. Roast for 12–15 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily, and Brussels sprouts are golden and tender.
6. Optional broil: For a caramelized finish, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
7. Serve: Transfer salmon and sprouts to plates, drizzle any remaining glaze over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a sheet pan.
3. Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, and smoked paprika.
4. Pat salmon dry and brush with glaze. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Place salmon on pan alongside Brussels sprouts.
6. Roast for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and sprouts are caramelized.
7. Optionally broil 1–2 minutes for extra glaze caramelization.
8. Plate, drizzle with glaze, garnish, and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve the salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and a side of wild rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for color and aroma.
• Drizzle remaining maple glaze over salmon and sprouts for extra flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook salmon: Aim for 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
• Trim Brussels sprouts properly: Remove tough outer leaves and slice evenly for even roasting.
• Single-pan method: Roast salmon and sprouts together, but leave enough space between fillets to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust sweetness: Reduce maple syrup if you prefer less sweetness.
• Add texture: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans over sprouts before serving.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Salmon: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
2. Citrus-Maple Glaze: Add 1 tbsp fresh orange or lemon juice to the glaze.
3. Sheet Pan Dinner: Add baby carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for a full one-pan meal.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
5. Honey Substitute: Replace maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon and Brussels sprouts separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Salmon can be frozen for up to 1 month; Brussels sprouts are best consumed fresh.
• Reheating: Gently reheat salmon in a low oven (275°F / 135°C) to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Small mixing bowl for glaze
• Pastry brush or spoon for glazing
• Oven and optional broiler
• Knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables

FAQ

Q1: Can I cook the salmon on the stovetop instead of the oven?
A: Yes, pan-sear on medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, then finish with glaze.

Q2: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before glazing and roasting.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Q4: How do I know when salmon is done?
A: It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q5: Can I prep the glaze in advance?
A: Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; rewarm slightly before using.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts is a simple yet elegant dish that marries sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. It’s nutritious, visually appealing, and perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. With its tender, flaky salmon and caramelized Brussels sprouts, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home while remaining quick and easy to prepare. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and impressive dinner.