Name: Brown Sugar Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark); ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tanginess); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth of flavor); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing); Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional); Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of caramel sweetness to the glaze, allowing it to caramelize beautifully when the salmon is baked or broiled.; Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is a classic ingredient that adds a salty umami flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the brown sugar and helping the glaze adhere to the salmon.; Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the glaze with aromatic flavor, making the overall dish more savory and fragrant.; Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness of the brown sugar and adds complexity to the glaze.; Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavor of the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note that complements the rich salmon.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tanginess)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth of flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of caramel sweetness to the glaze, allowing it to caramelize beautifully when the salmon is baked or broiled.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is a classic ingredient that adds a salty umami flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the brown sugar and helping the glaze adhere to the salmon.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the glaze with aromatic flavor, making the overall dish more savory and fragrant.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness of the brown sugar and adds complexity to the glaze.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavor of the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note that complements the rich salmon.

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade and Glaze

Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir until the brown sugar has dissolved, and all ingredients are well incorporated.
Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fillets, making sure each piece is coated well. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the fish. If you have more time, marinating for up to 30 minutes will enhance the flavor even more.

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the Salmon in the Baking Dish: After marinating, transfer the salmon fillets to the prepared baking dish. If there’s any remaining marinade, pour it over the top of the salmon to help create a flavorful glaze.

Cook the Salmon

Bake the Salmon: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork when done. If you like your salmon with a bit of a crispy top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve the Brown Sugar Salmon

Garnish and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Prep Time: 10minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 320
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 25g