Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon : The buttery salmon with a rich glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic, creating a caramelized crust that’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. Pair it with some roasted veggies or a simple salad, and dinner is done in under 30 minutes.
What is Brown Sugar Salmon?
Brown Sugar Salmon is a flavorful and effortless dish that combines the rich, buttery taste of salmon with the sweet, caramelized notes of brown sugar. The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic forms a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the natural flavors of the salmon, making it a dish everyone will crave.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Brown Sugar Salmon
- Pat Dry the Salmon: Always pat your salmon fillets dry before adding the glaze. This step ensures the glaze sticks well and creates a more caramelized crust.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon becomes dry and chalky if overcooked. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, let the salmon marinate in the brown sugar glaze for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This step infuses the fish with deeper flavors.
- Skin-On or Skin-Off: Keeping the skin on while cooking helps to retain moisture and makes it easier to handle the salmon on the grill or baking sheet.
Variations of Brown Sugar Salmon
- Spicy Brown Sugar Salmon: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the glaze for a kick of heat.
- Maple Glazed Salmon: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile.
- Teriyaki Style: Add a splash of mirin and a teaspoon of grated ginger to give the dish an Asian twist.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme over the glaze for an herby kick.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Salmon
- Over Rice: Serve the salmon on a bed of fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- With Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans pair beautifully with the sweet, caramelized salmon.
- On a Salad: Flake the salmon and toss it into a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
- In Tacos: For a fun twist, use Brown Sugar Salmon as a filling for fish tacos with a crunchy slaw and avocado.
How to Store Brown Sugar Salmon
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain moisture.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for a better glaze.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Absolutely! Light brown sugar will give a milder flavor, while dark brown sugar adds a deeper, more robust caramel taste.
How do I know if my salmon is cooked through?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should be opaque but still moist in the center.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative. Both provide a similar umami flavor.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes. Check for doneness and adjust as necessary.
Brown Sugar Salmon
Brown Sugar Salmon : The buttery salmon with a rich glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic, creating a caramelized crust that's sweet, savory, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, preferably wild-caught
- 1/2 lemon, quartered
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or chipotle powder for extra heat)
For the Beans
- 3/4 pound green beans (or your favorite quick-cooking veggie)
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and get a large, rimmed baking sheet ready.
- Mix together brown sugar, lemon zest, sea salt, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. This is your flavorful rub!
- Pat the salmon fillets dry, then rub with olive oil. Generously apply the brown sugar rub, massaging it into the fish.
- Don’t forget to swipe the skin side through any leftover rub on your board. If time allows, let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet.
- Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then scatter them around the salmon on the baking sheet.
- Pop everything into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches 125°F in the thickest part and easily flakes with a fork.
- Finish with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty squeeze.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 86Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 0mgSodium 280mgCarbohydrates 11gFiber 3gSugar 6gProtein 2g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
With these tips and variations, you’ll have no trouble creating a show-stopping Brown Sugar Salmon dish every time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Check my other salmon recipes:
