Imagine a dish that combines the rich flavor of salmon with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. This Maple Pecan Salmon recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The addition of maple syrup enhances the natural buttery sweetness of the salmon, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for entertaining. The combination of maple syrup, mustard, and cayenne pepper gives the salmon a zesty and savory twist, elevating it from a simple fish dish to a gourmet meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, cut into four equal pieces
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp brown mustard
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ cup pecans, crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Salmon: Arrange the salmon pieces skin side down on a greased or foil-lined baking pan. Brush the salmon with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the Glaze: While the salmon is baking, combine maple syrup, butter, mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a small pan. Bring the mixture to a low boil and simmer until it thickens. Add the crushed pecans and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Glaze the Salmon: Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven and spoon the maple pecan glaze over the pieces.
6. Serve: Serve the Maple Pecan Salmon hot, garnished with additional pecans if desired.

Top Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the fish is key to the final flavor. Wild-caught salmon often has a more intense flavor compared to farmed salmon and a firmer texture.
2. Choose Real Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is a must for the best flavor. Avoid artificial maple-flavored syrups as they can be too sweet and lack the depth of flavor of real maple syrup.
3. Experiment with Mustard: You can experiment with different types of mustard for varied flavors. Brown mustard adds a tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
4. Adjust Spiciness: The cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat, so adjust according to your preference for spiciness.
5. Add Veggies: Arrange your salmon on a baking sheet along with any veggies you would like to roast with it. This makes for a complete and balanced meal.
6. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to add a pop of color and extra flavor.

Variations

1. Walnut Substitute: You can substitute walnuts for the pecans for a different nutty flavor.
2. Orange Juice Addition: Add a splash of orange juice to the glaze for an extra citrusy twist.
3. Rosemary Infusion: Infuse the glaze with dried rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
4. Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.
5. Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, making it a nutritious choice. The maple syrup adds natural sweetness without refined sugars, and the pecans provide a crunchy texture with added fiber. This dish is perfect for those looking for a balanced meal that is both flavorful and healthy.