Sizzling Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon Recipe for Dinner Magic

Salmon with a zesty apricot dijon glaze might just become your new favorite weeknight meal.

Bright, tangy flavors dance across perfectly cooked fish, creating a delightful symphony of taste.

The combination feels surprisingly elegant yet remarkably simple to prepare.

Pantry staples blend into an irresistible sauce that caresses each tender salmon fillet.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients bring unexpected depth to this classic protein.

Our approach ensures you’ll craft a restaurant-quality dish without complicated techniques or expensive ingredients.

Experience how a few smart ingredients can turn an ordinary dinner into something memorable.

Why Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon Stands Out

• Craft Quick Flavor Explosion: This recipe transforms ordinary salmon into a gourmet dish with minimal effort, combining sweet apricot preserves and tangy Dijon mustard for an incredible taste experience.
• Master Speedy Weeknight Cooking: Total preparation and cooking time is under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy professionals or families wanting a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Elevate Healthy Eating Routine: Salmon provides excellent omega-3 fatty acids, while the glaze adds exciting flavors without excessive calories, creating a balanced and delicious dinner option that doesn't compromise nutrition.
• Customize with Ease: The recipe allows flexible serving suggestions like pairing with rice, roasted vegetables, or salad, and offers optional broiling for those who enjoy a caramelized exterior, making it adaptable to personal preferences.

Everything In Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

• Salmon Fillets: Tender protein base for the dish, wild-caught or farm-raised salmon works best, fresh or thawed from frozen.

• Apricot Preserves, Dijon Mustard, Whole Grain Mustard: Sweet and tangy flavor combination, look for high-quality, smooth preserves and mustards.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami, low-sodium option recommended.
• Lime Juice: Brings bright citrus notes, fresh lime preferred over bottled.

• Ginger, Garlic: Provides warm, pungent undertones, fresh minced is more flavorful than pre-chopped.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall taste, sea salt or kosher salt recommended.

• Fresh Parsley, Green Onions: Adds color and fresh herbal finish, chop just before serving.

• Rice, Roasted Vegetables, Green Salad: Complementary side dishes to complete the meal.

How To Make Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

Step 1: Whip Up Tangy Glaze

• Luscious apricot preserves
• Zesty Dijon mustard
• Hearty whole grain mustard
• Savory soy sauce
• Bright lime juice
• Minced fresh ginger
• Crushed garlic cloves

Whisk everything together until the glaze becomes smooth and glossy, allowing the ingredients to dance and blend perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Succulent Salmon

Remove salmon fillets from packaging and gently pat them dry using paper towels. Place the fish skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, creating a delicate seasoning layer.

Step 3: Coat with Luxurious Glaze

Using a silicone brush or spoon, generously spread the apricot-Dijon mixture over each salmon piece. Ensure every inch gets covered with the vibrant, tangy coating.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400 Fahrenheit. Roast for 10-12 minutes until the salmon effortlessly flakes with a fork. For an extra caramelized finish, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Plate

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions over the salmon. Serve alongside fluffy rice, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp garden salad. Enjoy your restaurant-quality meal!

Pro Tips For Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

• Boost Glaze Flavor: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness and create a more complex, balanced taste profile.
• Perfect Salmon Doneness: Check salmon's internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through without becoming dry.
• Substitute Preserves: Replace apricot preserves with peach or mango jam for a delightful variation that keeps the fruity glaze intact.
• Reduce Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content without compromising the rich, tangy flavor of the glaze.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time on cooking day.

How To Store Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon Properly

• Preserve your delicious salmon masterpiece by storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the salmon fresh for up to 2-3 days, ensuring maximum flavor and quality.
• Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap or place in sealed containers to prevent moisture loss and maintain texture.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water to keep the fish moist and prevent drying out.
• Never leave cooked salmon at room temperature for more than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
• Freeze unused portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month, but note that the glaze's texture might slightly change upon thawing.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best taste and safety.

What Matches With Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Grab a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the tangy apricot-Dijon glaze. These light, zesty wines cut through the richness of the salmon and enhance its delicate flavors.
• Create Refreshing Side Salad: Toss together a bright citrus salad with mixed greens, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette. The citrusy notes will mirror the lime juice in the glaze and provide a fresh contrast to the rich salmon.
• Match with Nutty Grain Pilaf: Prepare a wild rice or quinoa pilaf with toasted almonds and herbs. The nuttiness will beautifully echo the whole grain mustard in the glaze and add texture to the meal.
• Add Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast asparagus, carrots, and Brussels sprouts with a touch of olive oil and sea salt. These caramelized vegetables will complement the salmon's sweet and tangy glaze, creating a harmonious and colorful plate.

Different Ways To Make Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

• Tropical Mango Glaze: Swap apricot preserves with mango chutney for a sweeter, more tropical flavor profile that complements the salmon's richness.
• Spicy Korean Fusion: Replace whole grain mustard with gochujang and add a splash of rice vinegar to create a Korean-inspired glazed salmon with a subtle kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Version: Incorporate chopped fresh oregano and swap Dijon mustard for a light tahini sauce, giving the salmon a Mediterranean coastal feel.
• Smoky Bourbon Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of bourbon and smoked paprika to the original glaze for a deeper, more complex flavor that adds a robust character to the salmon.

Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon FAQs

• What makes the apricot Dijon glaze special?

The combination of sweet apricot preserves, tangy Dijon and whole grain mustards, and savory soy sauce creates a complex, restaurant-quality flavor that perfectly complements the salmon’s richness.

• Can I use fresh salmon or frozen salmon for this recipe?

Fresh salmon works best, but high-quality frozen salmon that’s completely thawed and patted dry will also work beautifully. Just ensure the fish is dry before applying the glaze to help it adhere properly.

• How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and appears opaque throughout. For most fillets, this takes 10-12 minutes at 400F. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep or entertaining?

Absolutely! This dish is impressive enough for guests but quick enough for a weeknight dinner. The glaze can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions.

Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent salmon meets tangy apricot dijon glaze, creating a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate. Mediterranean-inspired ingredients elevate this elegant dish, promising a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 (6-ounce/170 grams) salmon fillets
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) apricot preserves or jam

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (or use more Dijon)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons garlic, grated

Seasonings:

• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant glaze by whisking apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, soy sauce, lime juice, minced ginger, and crushed garlic in a compact mixing vessel until thoroughly combined.
2. Meticulously cleanse salmon fillets using paper towels, ensuring complete dryness, then arrange them skin-side facing downward on a parchment-lined baking tray.
3. Generously season the salmon with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, creating an even layer of seasoning across the surface.
4. Delicately apply the prepared apricot-Dijon glaze using a silicone brush, coating each fillet with a uniform layer that captures the intricate flavor profile.
5. Position the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400F (200C), allowing the salmon to roast for approximately 10-12 minutes until the fish achieves a perfect flaky texture.
6. For an enhanced caramelized exterior, activate the broiler and position the tray closer to the heat source for an additional 1-2 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
7. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a brief moment to settle the juices and intensify the glaze’s flavors.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
9. Serve immediately alongside complementary accompaniments such as fragrant rice, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad to complete the culinary experience.

Notes

• Customize the glaze sweetness by adjusting the ratio of apricot preserves to mustard for your preferred flavor profile.
• Select fresh, high-quality salmon with vibrant color and firm texture to ensure the best taste and cooking results.
• Opt for wild-caught salmon for a more robust flavor and higher omega-3 content compared to farm-raised varieties.
• Substitute honey or maple syrup for apricot preserves if you want a different sweet undertone in the glaze.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg