Description

This Baked Asian Salmon with Maple Glaze is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal dish for a quick and nutritious dinner. The combination of maple syrup and soy sauce enhances the richness of the salmon, while a touch of lime juice adds brightness. Served with wilted spinach and rice, this meal is both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Glaze:

2 teaspoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon minced garlic (divided)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
3 Tablespoons Tamari soy sauce
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch (or arrowroot/tapioca for Whole30/Paleo)
1 teaspoon water

For the Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (4 oz each)
1 teaspoon olive oil

For the Spinach:

1 package (9 oz) fresh spinach
2 teaspoons black sesame seeds

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the maple syrup, soy sauce, and lime juice. Cook for another 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and stir into the saucepan. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes), then set it aside.
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared cookie sheet. Brush 1-2 teaspoons of the glaze over each fillet.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily when pierced with a fork.
While the salmon is baking, prepare the spinach. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of garlic for 1-2 minutes.
Add the spinach leaves in a single layer, turning them over as they wilt. Remove from the pan once they’re fully cooked.
To serve, place a portion of rice on each plate, top with wilted spinach, then add the salmon fillet. Drizzle the remaining glaze over the top.

Notes

For best results, use fresh salmon and spinach.
Avoid overcooking the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
Customize the glaze by adding more spice or a touch of honey.
Garnish with chopped green onions or toasted nuts for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Lunch
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 10g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g

Keywords: salmon, baked salmon, Asian salmon, maple glaze, healthy dinner, easy salmon recipe