Maple Walnut Salmon
A deliciously glazed salmon with maple syrup and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a quick, elegant dinner that highlights sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and place the salmon fillet skin side down in the pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the maple walnut mixture over the top of the salmon.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the color is light pink.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, choose a fresh salmon fillet and ensure it's at room temperature before cooking. If walnuts aren't available, pecans can be a delicious substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or black pepper to the maple syrup mixture. For a unique twist, try incorporating a dash of soy sauce for a savory element. Browse more seafood recipes for additional inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This Maple Walnut Salmon pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a fresh meal. Consider serving it alongside quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious maple sauce. A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish well. For more ideas, include sides from American recipes that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring it remains moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Walnut Salmon contains roughly 199 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it's essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Ideally, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This will ensure even cooking and maintain the salmon's texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can be used as alternatives. However, keep in mind that these sweeteners will alter the flavor slightly. You might want to add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness as well.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a light pink color in the center. A good indicator is to use a meat thermometer—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Remove it from the oven just before it reaches this temperature, as it will continue to cook slightly after being taken out.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).