Easy Maple Dijon Grilled Salmon Recipe | 3 Ingredients

Some of the best grilling recipes are also the simplest. This maple Dijon grilled salmon needs just three main ingredients, takes only minutes to prepare, and delivers the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, smoky flavor.

Whether you're cooking dinner on a busy weeknight or firing up the grill for friends and family, this easy grilled salmon recipe is one you'll want to keep handy.

Why You'll Love This Maple Dijon Grilled Salmon

• Only three main ingredients
• Quick enough for a weeknight dinner
• No complicated prep
• Sweet, tangy and slightly smoky
• Perfect for gas, charcoal or outdoor kitchen grills
• Easy to pair with vegetables, rice, potatoes or salad

The Three Ingredients

For approximately 4 servings, you'll need:

• 4 salmon fillets – about 6 ounces each
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

You can also add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, but the maple syrup and Dijon mustard do most of the work.

Easy Salmon Marinade for Grilling

The beauty of this salmon marinade for grilling is how simple it is. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard until completely combined.

Place the salmon in a shallow dish or resealable container. Spoon most of the maple-Dijon mixture over the salmon, making sure the top and sides are coated.

Reserve a small amount of the mixture in a separate clean bowl for brushing onto the salmon while it cooks.

Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes. Salmon doesn't need hours of marinating, making this recipe ideal when you want something quick.

How to Grill Maple Dijon Salmon

1. Preheat the grill. Heat your grill to approximately 400°F to 425°F.
2. Clean and oil the grates. Salmon can stick easily, so start with clean grill grates and lightly oil them before cooking.
3. Place the salmon on the grill. If you're using skin-on salmon, begin with the skin side down.
4. Grill for about 4 to 6 minutes. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain even heat.
5. Flip carefully. Cook for another 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. Brush with the reserved glaze. During the final few minutes, lightly brush the salmon with the clean maple-Dijon mixture you set aside.
7. Remove and rest. Take the salmon off the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

How Do You Know When Grilled Salmon Is Done?

Salmon should become opaque and flake easily with a fork when cooked. For the most reliable results, use an instant-read food thermometer rather than judging doneness only by appearance.

The USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest portion of the salmon to check the temperature.

What to Serve With Maple Dijon Salmon

This sweet and tangy salmon works especially well with simple grilled sides. Try serving it with:

• Grilled asparagus
• Zucchini or squash
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Wild rice or seasoned rice
• A fresh garden salad
• Grilled lemon halves

Can You Make Maple Dijon Salmon on a Grill Mat or Foil?

Yes. If you're worried about the salmon sticking or breaking apart, place it on a grill-safe mat or a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This is also a convenient option when cooking several fillets at once.

If using foil, leave the top open rather than completely wrapping the salmon. That allows it to pick up more of the flavor and character of outdoor grilling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Absolutely. Skin-on salmon works very well on the grill. Starting skin-side down can also help protect the delicate fish from the direct heat.

How long should salmon marinate before grilling?

About 15 to 30 minutes is plenty for this recipe. There's no need to marinate it for hours.

Can I make the maple Dijon glaze ahead of time?

Yes. Mix the maple syrup and Dijon mustard ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

Can I use this marinade on other foods?

Yes. The maple-Dijon combination also works beautifully with chicken, pork and grilled vegetables.

What temperature should salmon reach?

The USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F, measured in the thickest portion.

Simple Ingredients, Big Grilled Flavor

You don't need a long ingredient list to make an impressive meal outdoors. The maple syrup caramelizes over the heat while Dijon mustard adds just enough tang to balance the sweetness.

The result is an easy maple Dijon grilled salmon recipe that's simple enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to serve when you're entertaining outdoors.

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