Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon

Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon is a sweet, tangy, and savory dish that’s incredibly simple to prepare but packed with gourmet-level flavor. A quick apricot jam and Dijon mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully over tender, flaky salmon fillets—making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a special occasion with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes
• Balanced flavors—sweet apricot, zesty mustard, and savory salmon
• Bakes to perfection with no marinating required
• Great for healthy eating and naturally gluten-free
• Elegant enough for guests but easy enough for any night

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets, skin on or off
• Apricot preserves or jam
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce or tamari (optional, for umami depth)
• Lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme, optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Pat salmon dry and place it in the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce (if using) until smooth.
4. Spoon the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets, spreading to coat the tops and sides.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
6. Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Add Citrus: Use orange or lime juice in place of lemon for a different citrus note.
• Grilled Version: Grill salmon over medium heat and baste with glaze during the last few minutes.
• Herb Crust: Sprinkle chopped fresh thyme or rosemary over the glaze before baking.
• Make It a Meal: Serve with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apricots instead of jam?

You can cook down fresh apricots with a bit of honey or sugar to make a quick glaze, but apricot jam is easier and just as flavorful.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before baking.

What mustard works best?

Dijon adds a smooth, tangy flavor. Whole grain mustard can be used for texture and extra bite.

Is this recipe sweet?

It’s sweet and savory. The mustard and lemon balance out the apricot’s natural sweetness.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. Mix it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What’s the best way to tell when salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, sear the salmon first, then add the glaze and cook until thickened and salmon is cooked through.

What sides pair well?

Roasted asparagus, garlic rice, couscous, or a citrusy arugula salad are all great options.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and great for balanced eating.

Can I use this glaze on other proteins?

Yes! It’s delicious on chicken, pork tenderloin, or tofu.

Conclusion

Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory, all wrapped up in a fast and foolproof recipe. It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but takes minimal time—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or anytime you want something delicious without the stress. One bite, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

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