Best Candied Salmon Recipe: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Sweet & Savory Delight
Discover the best candied salmon recipe with maple, honey, and teriyaki glazes. Sweet, savory, and easy to make at home.
Introduction
Have you ever craved something that’s sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious all at once? Imagine perfectly cooked salmon fillets coated in a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. That’s the magic of candied salmon.
Today, I’ll walk you through the best candied salmon recipe you’ll ever try. With the perfect balance of maple syrup, honey, or teriyaki glaze, this dish transforms simple salmon into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a date night, or a quick weekday treat, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Best Candied Salmon Recipe
- Sweet & Savory Balance: A caramelized glaze locks in flavor.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or salad topper.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients for the Best Candied Salmon Recipe
Below is a well-structured ingredient table to help you prepare with ease.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh salmon fillets | 4 (6 oz each) | Skin on preferred for texture |
| Maple syrup | 3 tbsp | Can substitute with honey |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | Enhances caramelization |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds umami depth |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Fresh for best flavor |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Balances sweetness |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Helps crisp glaze |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Seasoning essentials |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for a foolproof candied salmon dish:
1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if needed.
2. Marinate the Salmon
- Place salmon fillets in a dish.
- Pour marinade over the salmon and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
- For deeper flavor, refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Bake or Pan-Sear
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Stovetop method: Heat a skillet over medium-high. Sear salmon skin-side down for 3 minutes, then flip and cook another 3–5 minutes.
4. Glaze & Caramelize
- Brush remaining marinade over salmon.
- Broil or sear for an additional 2–3 minutes until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or lemon slices.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Variations of the Best Candied Salmon Recipe
To keep your meals exciting, here are some delicious twists:
🍯 Honey-Glazed Salmon
Swap maple syrup with honey for a floral sweetness.
🍁 Maple Candied Salmon
Stick to the classic Canadian-style maple glaze.
🍶 Teriyaki Salmon Twist
Use teriyaki sauce for a savory, slightly tangy profile.
🌶️ Spicy Candied Salmon
Add red chili flakes or sriracha to balance the sweetness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Candied Salmon
- Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook—salmon is best slightly pink in the center.
- Line your baking tray with parchment to avoid sticky cleanup.
- Double the glaze recipe—it works as a dipping sauce!
Nutritional Value
Candied salmon isn’t just tasty—it’s nourishing.
- Calories per serving: ~320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 14g
- Omega-3 fatty acids: High
(Source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)
Where to Place Images for SEO
- Hero Image – Candied salmon fillet plated beautifully (Alt text: best candied salmon recipe with maple glaze).
- Process Shots – Marinating salmon, brushing glaze (Alt text: candied salmon recipe preparation).
- Final Dish Close-Up – Caramelized salmon served with sides (Alt text: honey glazed salmon candied recipe).
Internal & External SEO Linking
- Internal: Link to your posts like “Quick Chicken Recipes for Busy Nights” or “Crispy Rice Salad Ideas”.
- External:
FAQs about the Best Candied Salmon Recipe
1. What makes this the best candied salmon recipe?
The balance of maple syrup, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a perfect sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
2. Can I make candied salmon ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and marinate the salmon in advance, then bake just before serving.
3. Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely. Thaw it fully, pat dry, and follow the same steps for best results.
4. Is candied salmon healthy?
Yes. Despite its sweetness, salmon remains high in protein and omega-3s. Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for balance.
5. What sides go best with candied salmon?
Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp cucumber salad pair beautifully.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without stress, this best candied salmon recipe is a winner. It’s quick, healthy, and delicious enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
👉 Try it tonight, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!
