There’s something undeniably comforting about a beautifully glazed salmon filet, roasted to perfection and served alongside caramelized vegetables. This Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon with Roasted Carrots brings that warm, cozy vibe to your dinner table—perfect for a casual weeknight meal or an elegant Christmas dinner. The salmon is sweet, tangy, and savory all at once, thanks to a balanced glaze of pure maple syrup, sharp Dijon mustard, and a hint of garlic. Paired with tender, oven-roasted carrots that soak up all the flavors, this dish is a fresh take on holiday flavors. Whether you're looking to spice up your usual fish rotation or are searching for a standout centerpiece among your feast of the seven fishes recipes, this is one to bookmark.
Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon with Roasted Carrots
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Baking sheet A large rimmed baking sheet works best, especially if you're roasting the salmon and carrots on the same tray. Alternatively, use two sheets to avoid crowding.
Mixing bowls For tossing the carrots and mixing the glaze.
Brush or spoon To spread the glaze over the salmon.
Oven Preheated and ready to work its magic.
Foil or parchment paper Optional but helpful for easy cleanup.
Meat thermometer (optional) Ensures salmon is cooked to a perfect 125–130°F internal temp.
For the Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard optional, for texture
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
For the Roasted Carrots
- 1 lb carrots peeled and cut into sticks or diagonals
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or cumin for extra warmth
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or dill
- Lemon zest optional
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), soy sauce, minced garlic, and olive oil. This mixture should be glossy and fragrant. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on one half of the prepared baking sheet. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick. Season each filet lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Glaze the Salmon
Using a spoon or a brush, coat the top of each salmon filet generously with the maple Dijon glaze. Let the glaze sit on the fish while you prep the carrots—this gives the flavors time to soak in.
Step 5: Prepare the Carrots
In a separate bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of cinnamon or cumin if you're feeling festive. Spread the carrots on the other half of the baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 6: Roast
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 18–20 minutes. The salmon should be flaky and opaque, and the carrots tender with caramelized edges. If you want a bit more color on the salmon, broil for the final 1–2 minutes—but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon zest. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra bright finish.
Pairings
This dish walks the line between cozy comfort and bright sophistication, so it pairs well with a variety of side dishes and drinks:
- Sides: Try a wild rice pilaf, garlicky mashed potatoes, or a citrusy arugula salad with shaved fennel. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a medley of root vegetables would be equally festive.
- Drinks: A crisp Chardonnay or a dry Riesling complements the sweetness of the glaze. For non-alcoholic pairings, consider sparkling apple cider or a rosemary-infused lemonade.
- Appetizers: If you're planning a multi-course meal, start with fish appetizers like smoked salmon crostini or mini crab cakes to keep the seafood theme flowing.
This recipe could easily slot into your collection of best fish recipes or even double as a main course for a casual Christmas salmon recipe. It’s refined without being fussy, flavorful without being overpowering.
FAQs
1. What kind of salmon should I use?
Fresh, center-cut salmon fillets work best for even cooking. You can use either Atlantic or Pacific salmon, but wild-caught varieties often have a richer flavor. Leave the skin on to help keep the fish moist during roasting.
2. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! This glaze also works well with red fish, cod, or trout. In fact, it’s a great option if you're browsing red fish recipes or looking to experiment with fresh fish recipes beyond salmon.
3. Can this dish be prepped ahead?
Absolutely. You can mix the glaze and cut the carrots a day ahead. You can also marinate the salmon in the glaze for a couple of hours in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before cooking.
4. Is this suitable for Christmas dinner?
Yes, it’s an excellent Christmas dish. The sweet-savory profile of the glaze makes it a holiday crowd-pleaser. Add it to your rotation of Christmas fish recipes, especially if you're hosting a Feast of the Seven Fishes celebration.
5. Can I turn this into a stuffed fish recipe?
Sure! While this recipe is designed for simple filets, you can adapt it by stuffing a whole fish (like trout or red snapper) with lemon, herbs, and garlic, then coating it with the glaze. Bake as directed, adjusting the time for the size of the fish.
