This Easy Maple Ginger Salmon is both tasty and quick to make! The sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with ginger and juicy salmon fillets, creating a simple yet delicious meal.
And let’s not forget the fresh peach salsa! It adds a burst of color and flavor that makes the dish feel special. I love serving it with a side of rice for a hearty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even chicken breast for a similar marinade flavor. Just adjust the cooking time for chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds sweetness. If you need a substitute, honey or agave syrup can work well, though they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a nice kick to the marinade. You can use ground ginger in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. About 1 teaspoon should suffice.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add fresh flavor to the salsa. If they’re out of season, nectarines or even mango can make a tasty substitute.
Jalapeño: This adds heat to the salsa. If you prefer a milder flavor, skip it or use a little chopped bell pepper instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky. Here are a few tips:
- Cook on medium-high heat and don’t rush the searing—let it sit for 4-5 minutes to form a nice crust.
- When you flip the salmon, pour the reserved marinade on top to keep it moist.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing the salmon with a fork; it should flake easily without being too mushy.
Following these steps will help ensure you have moist and flavorful salmon every time!
Easy Maple Ginger Salmon with Fresh Peach Salsa
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Fresh Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30-35 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, grated ginger, soy sauce, olive oil, and minced garlic until well combined. This sweet and savory marinade will give the salmon a delightful flavor!
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour the maple ginger marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes for more flavor.
3. Make the Fresh Peach Salsa:
While the salmon is marinating, prepare the peach salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced peaches, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them until they’re nicely seared.
5. Finish Cooking the Salmon:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and pour the reserved marinade over the top. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. The glaze will thicken slightly, enhancing the flavor.
6. Serve:
Transfer the salmon fillets to plates and generously spoon the fresh peach salsa over the top or alongside. The bright colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress!
7. Optional Garnish:
For an extra pop, garnish with additional fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime for squeezing over the salmon just before serving.
This Easy Maple Ginger Salmon comes together beautifully, offering a fantastic blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Enjoy this healthy, flavorful dish with family and friends!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure the flavors soak in well.
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
Store any leftover salmon and peach salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon will keep for up to 3 days, while the salsa is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
What Can I Use Instead of Peaches in the Salsa?
If peaches are out of season or unavailable, you can substitute with nectarines or mango for a similar sweetness. Just make sure the fruit is ripe for the best flavor!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach salsa a few hours in advance. Just be sure to cover it and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making it even tastier when you serve it!
