This yummy salmon dish is sweet, spicy, and fresh all at once! The combination of maple syrup and ginger gives it a delightful glaze, while the peach salsa adds a burst of flavor.
I love how quick this meal is to make! Just cook the salmon, whip up the salsa, and dinner is ready. Perfect for a summer night, or any time you want to impress without too much effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key for this dish, but you can substitute it with trout or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. I love wild-caught salmon for its flavor, but farmed salmon works too if that’s what you have.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor here. If you’re on a budget, honey or agave syrup can work as a substitute, just keep in mind they have different sweetness levels. I personally prefer maple syrup for its unique taste!
Fresh Ginger: Grated fresh ginger brings warmth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger, but cut the amount to about a third since it’s more concentrated. Fresh ginger adds a lovely zing!
Peaches: Ripe peaches are perfect for the salsa. If they’re out of season, try using mango or nectarines instead for a similar sweetness. I like the balance of flavors, and tropical fruits add a fun twist!
How Can You Perfectly Cook Salmon Every Time?
Cooking salmon may seem tricky, but with a few tips, it’s a breeze! To achieve that juicy, flaky texture, follow these steps:
- Start by bringing the salmon to room temperature before cooking; let it sit out for about 15 minutes.
- When pan-searing, heat your skillet well before adding the salmon. This helps sear it nicely and prevent sticking.
- Cook on medium-high heat and don’t flip it too soon. Let it sear for about 4-5 minutes without moving it.
- Use a timer and check doneness with a fork; when it flakes easily, it’s ready! Aim for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C).
Easy Maple Ginger Salmon with Fresh Peach Salsa
Ingredients:
For the Maple Ginger Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Fresh Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Time Estimate:
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, grated ginger, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until it’s well combined. This tasty glaze will give your salmon a delightful sweet and spicy flavor!
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and place them in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the maple ginger mixture over the salmon, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more flavor.
3. Make the Peach Salsa:
While the salmon is marinating, prepare the fresh peach salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently and set it aside to let all the flavors amalgamate!
4. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in a little olive oil. When the pan is hot, take the salmon out of the marinade (remember to keep the marinade) and place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them without moving them for about 4-5 minutes.
5. Flip and Glaze the Salmon:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and pour the reserved marinade into the pan. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze has thickened slightly. You’ll love the smell filling your kitchen!
6. Plate and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the salmon to plates and spoon a generous amount of the fresh peach salsa over the top. Serve immediately, alongside your favorite side dishes like rice or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Enjoy this vibrant, sweet, and tangy salmon dish with a fresh and lively peach salsa that perfectly balances the rich fish with bright fruity notes!
FAQ for Easy Maple Ginger Salmon with Fresh Peach Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s important to thaw it completely first. To thaw, place the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure the glaze adheres well!
What Can I Substitute for Peaches in the Salsa?
If fresh peaches are out of season, mango or nectarines make excellent substitutes for the salsa! They provide similar sweetness and texture, adding a tropical twist while still enhancing the dish.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
The jalapeño in the peach salsa adds a nice kick, but you can easily control the heat. If you prefer a milder salsa, simply omit the jalapeño. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon can be reheated in a skillet over low heat, or you can enjoy the salsa cold directly from the fridge. Just note that the flavors of the salsa will intensify as it sits!
