Firecracker Salmon

This salmon gets marinated in a maple and jalapeno sauce, then gets topped with additional maple syrup during baking, for a perfect spicy-sweet marriage of flavors. This only has a hint of heat, so double the jalapeno if desired. Use center-cut salmon fillets that are approximately 1 inch thick.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 366 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium jalapeno, cut in half width-wise
• 2 (6 ounce) fillets salmon fillets

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/2 of the jalapeno pepper, garlic, vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a mini food processor or small blender jar; blend until smooth.

Step 3

Place salmon fillets in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade on top, seal, and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and let the bag sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Remove salmon from marinade and pat dry. Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet and season with additional salt and pepper. Slice remaining jalapeno pepper thinly and place on top of salmon.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Brush 2 teaspoons maple syrup onto the fillets and return to the hot oven. Bake until fish flakes easily with a fork, an additional 3 to 5 minutes.