Caramelized Maple-Mustard Salmon
The classic combo of salmon and mustard can be boring. By adding caramelized maple syrup, the dish takes on a sweet complexity that cannot be matched.
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 garlic clove, finely grated
3 tablespoon whole grain mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon thyme leaves, minced, plus whole leaves for garnish
Kosher salt, to taste
¼ cup olive oil
One 3½-pound salmon fillet
Chopped chives, for garnish
Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a sheet pan with foil. In a small saucepan heat maple syrup, crushed red pepper and garlic over medium heat. Cook until fragrant and bubbling, 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a medium heatproof bowl, then whisk in mustard, lemon juice and zest, thyme leaves and salt. While whisking, slowly stream in the olive oil until an emulsified sauce forms.
Lay the salmon across the center of the pan. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salmon and season with more salt.
Place in the oven and cook until golden and fish is cooked, 15-20 minutes. Garnish with thyme leaves and chives, then serve.