Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Lemon Garlic

July 30, 2025

This salmon dish is a tasty mix of sweet and salty, thanks to the brown sugar and soy sauce. The lemon and garlic add a fresh kick that makes it even better!

When I cook this, my kitchen smells amazing! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a simple, satisfying meal. It’s quick to make and always a hit at dinner!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Salmon: Fresh salmon is best. If you can’t find salmon, you could use trout or even tilapia as a substitute. Just keep an eye on cooking times since they cook differently.

Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a variation, but adjust the amounts since they are sweeter.

Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works great. Alternatively, coconut aminos is a tasty gluten-free option that also reduces sodium.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but use less as it’s often more concentrated.

Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a great flavor. You can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is always better for this recipe!

How Do I Get My Salmon Glaze Just Right?

The key to a flavorful glaze is balancing the sweet and salty elements. Make sure to mix the brown sugar with soy sauce well until mostly dissolved, as this helps with even coating. When glazing, don’t be shy—cover the salmon generously!

  • Keep an eye on the glaze while it bakes to prevent it from burning, especially if you’re broiling at the end.
  • If you have leftovers, they make a delicious salmon salad or sandwich the next day.
  • Add extra lemon zest to your glaze for even more citrus brightness!

Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Lemon Garlic

Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Lemon Garlic

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced (for garnish and roasting)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Aluminum foil (for baking)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help cook the salmon evenly and give it a nice glaze. To make cleanup a breeze, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. Make the Glaze:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), and black pepper. Stir the mixture until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. This will create a sweet and savory glaze that coats the salmon beautifully!

3. Prepare Salmon:

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on your lined baking sheet. This helps keep the skin from getting soggy and allows the glaze to stick better.

4. Apply the Glaze:

Using a spoon, drizzle the brown sugar soy glaze evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover the entire top and sides. The more glaze, the better!

5. Add Lemon Slices:

For an extra burst of flavor, lay lemon slices underneath and on top of the salmon fillets. This not only enhances the taste but also makes for a pretty presentation!

6. Bake:

Now, pop that baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The glaze should look caramelized and shiny.

7. Broil (Optional):

If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, switch your oven to broil and broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning—cooking with a flame can be a bit tricky!

8. Garnish and Serve:

Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables or fluffy rice.

Enjoy your beautifully glazed salmon, bursting with sweet, savory, citrusy, and garlicky flavors! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Lemon Garlic

FAQ for Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Lemon Garlic

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before applying the glaze.

Can I Prepare the Glaze in Advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the glaze and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it, as the sugar may settle at the bottom.

What Should I Serve with This Salmon?

This glazed salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. A simple salad or garlic mashed potatoes also makes a great accompaniment!

How to Store Leftover Salmon?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to help maintain moisture.

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Willow

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