Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon (cut into individual filets)
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 ½ tsp stone ground mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp sea salt (to taste)
- ½ cup raw pecans (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: For an extra crunchy topping, transfer the finely chopped pecans to a small skillet and heat over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the nuts turn slightly darker. Remove and transfer to a bowl to cool.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet or casserole dish by spraying it with cooking spray or greasing it lightly with avocado oil.
- Prepare the Salmon: Remove the salmon filets from their packaging and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the glaze adhere better to the fish.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl or ramekin, combine the avocado oil, maple syrup, stone ground mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and sea salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Glaze the Salmon: Place the salmon filets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the maple syrup mixture evenly over each filet, then use your hands or a silicone brush to coat all surfaces of the salmon with the glaze.
- Apply the Pecan Crust: Gently press the toasted, finely chopped pecans onto the glazed salmon filets making sure they stick to the surface to form a crunchy topping.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Adjust baking time depending on thickness: around 8 minutes for 1-inch thick filets and up to 12 minutes for thicker pieces.
- Check for Doneness: Use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon at the thickest part. The FDA recommends 145°F for fully cooked salmon. If you prefer it slightly rare, aim for 130°F, but only if your fish is very fresh.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with lemon wedges to add fresh citrus flavor.
Notes
- Toasted pecans add extra crunch but are optional—you can use raw pecans directly if preferred.
- Adjust salt amount according to taste and the saltiness of your salmon.
- Check salmon thickness carefully since baking time varies significantly with size.
- Use a digital thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked fish every time.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges or your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
