Bake this: 12‑minute salmon with a sweet-smoky glaze
Salmon is one of the most popular fish and can be prepared in many ways. From baking and frying to wrapping in puff pastry, there's something for everyone. For a quick dinner, we suggest juicy salmon in just 12 minutes.
Eating salmon is a nutritious choice and beneficial to include in your regular diet. It is rich in nutrients, and its regular consumption can contribute to improved health and well-being.
The secret to salmon's flavour
To achieve juicy salmon, it's important to use a recipe that includes a special marinade. The fish doesn't need many spices to taste exquisite. Joanne Gallagher, co-founder of Inspired Taste and an experienced cook, recommends a recipe featuring brown sugar, which significantly enhances its texture and taste.
Joanne explains that baked salmon with brown sugar makes for a tasty and simple dinner. The easy mixture of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and lemon zest pairs perfectly with salmon fillets, caramelizing in the oven to create a rich, sweet-smoky glaze.
Brown sugar helps retain moisture, keeping the salmon juicy and tender during baking, preventing it from drying out. Additionally, the molasses in brown sugar creates a beautifully caramelized crust, enhancing the fish's flavour with a subtle sweetness.
Step-by-step recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 lemon, cut into quarters
- A pinch of salt
- Olive oil
Method of preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C with fan). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Thoroughly dry the salmon fillets with a paper towel, then rub them with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, lemon zest, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Generously coat the salmon fillets with the sugar mixture, rubbing it well into the fish. If you have time, allow the salmon to marinate for 10-15 minutes to let the flavours meld.
- Place the salmon on the baking sheet, skin side down, and put it in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and serve with your favourite salad and pearl couscous or rice. If you like, add lemon wedges to squeeze juice over the salmon before serving.
