Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze

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What if your weeknight dinner could taste like a gourmet restaurant dish with just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes? That’s exactly what you get with this Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze — a stunning balance of sweet, savory, and subtly smoky flavors, all wrapped around tender, flaky salmon.

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining caramelized brown sugar with garlic, Dijon, and a hint of spice to bring the salmon to life. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual dinner party, this glazed salmon steals the show without stealing your time. Pair it with steamed greens or buttery baby potatoes and you’ve got a winning plate.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create this luscious glazed salmon, the prep is delightfully simple, and the tools are likely already in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan: This helps develop a beautiful sear on the salmon and finishes the glaze evenly in the oven.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the glaze smoothly so the mustard and sugar emulsify properly.
• Basting Brush (optional): Allows you to evenly coat the salmon with the glaze during baking.
• Meat Thermometer: Helps ensure your salmon reaches the ideal internal temperature (around 125°F for medium).
• Small Saucepan: Used for warming the glaze just before applying.

Each tool plays a role in helping you balance the textures: crisp edges, flaky middle, and a sticky glaze that clings just right.

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Ingredients for the Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze

Each ingredient in this dish is chosen with care to balance the flavor profile and texture:

• Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish, rich in omega-3s and naturally buttery.
• Brown Sugar – Adds caramelized sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory base.
• Dijon Mustard – Offers a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the sweetness.
• Soy Sauce – Deepens the umami notes and rounds out the glaze.
• Garlic (minced) – A punch of aromatic depth that ties all the flavors together.
• Black Pepper & Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Bring warmth and mild heat.
• Olive Oil – Helps to sear and lock in moisture.

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How To Make the Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Warm gently until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Pat salmon fillets dry and sear skin-side up for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

Turn the fillets and brush a generous layer of glaze over each piece. Reserve some glaze for later basting.

Step 4: Oven Finish

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until salmon flakes easily and registers 125°F internally.

Step 5: Final Glaze & Serve

Baste once more with the warm glaze before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

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Serving and Storing Your Glazed Salmon

Serve this salmon hot with your favorite sides: roasted asparagus, lemon couscous, or creamy mashed potatoes are all fantastic pairings. For an added fresh touch, try a crisp salad with citrus vinaigrette.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Can I make this glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat before using.

What other fish works with this glaze?

Try trout, cod, or even shrimp — the glaze is versatile.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Definitely. Grill over medium heat and baste during the last few minutes.

Is the glaze very sweet?

It’s balanced with Dijon and soy sauce, but you can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A chilled Pinot Noir or a slightly oaked Chardonnay works beautifully.

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Want More Salmon Dinner Ideas?

If this sweet and savory salmon is up your alley, you might love the Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe, which uses a rich, garlicky twist on the glaze approach.

For something lighter, the Mediterranean Salmon Patties pack a punch of herb flavor in a tidy, crispy form.

Looking for spicy? Don’t miss the Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon with its creamy, spicy sauce.

And if you want a cozy combo, try the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna — a seafood fusion comfort dish.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your seafood dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try it with lemon zest? Add your own twist to the glaze? Drop a comment below — or even better, tag me on Pinterest at LadyPlate with your version. I can’t wait to see your spin!

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