Dinner

Maple Pecan Salmon Recipe

ByRita Bennet December 20, 2025December 20, 2025

Introduction

This Maple Pecan Salmon recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. The tender, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with a rich maple glaze and crunchy pecans, making it an elegant yet easy meal for any night of the week.

This image shows two cooked salmon fillets topped with glossy, toasted pecans that add a crunchy texture, their orange-pink flesh clearly visible under the shiny pecan layer. The salmon is placed on a white plate, surrounded by green asparagus spears that are slightly charred, adding a contrast of color with their deep green hues. The background is a white marbled surface that highlights the vibrant colors of the dish. The lighting accentuates the glistening nuts and the moist texture of the salmon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs salmon fillet, cut into four equal pieces
1 Tbsp olive oil

¼ cup maple syrup
1 Tbsp butter

1 Tbsp brown mustard
½ tsp salt

½ tsp pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
½ cup pecans, crushed

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Place the salmon pieces skin side down on a greased or foil-lined baking pan. Brush the fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: While the salmon is baking, combine the maple syrup, mustard, butter, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then simmer until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the crushed pecans and cook the maple mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the pecans to soften and toast slightly.
Step 5: Remove the salmon from the oven and spoon the warm maple pecan glaze evenly over each piece. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the pecans in a dry skillet before crushing and adding to the glaze.

Swap brown mustard for Dijon or whole grain mustard for varying flavor profiles.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. The glaze may thicken upon cooling; you can warm it slightly before serving to restore its texture.

How to Serve

Two pieces of cooked salmon fillets topped with a glossy layer of brown pecan nuts in syrup sit side by side on a white plate with a blue rim. Each salmon fillet is a light orange color with seasoning visible on top. On either side of the salmon, there are bright green asparagus stalks, which are lightly seasoned and slightly glistening. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salmon fillets with skin removed?

Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets. Just be cautious while baking, as skin helps hold the fillet together and retains moisture more effectively.