Hey there, friends!
Are you in the mood for a delicious dinner idea?
Today, I’m excited to share my brown sugar baked salmon recipe!
This dish is sweet, savory, and super easy to whip up.
Plus, it’s healthy and packed with flavor.
You’ll have dinner on the table in no time, and everyone will be asking for seconds! Let’s dive in!
Ingredient Substitutions
For the salmon fillets, steelhead trout or arctic char can be used as alternatives. These fish have similar textures and flavors to salmon, and can be cooked using the same method. They also provide comparable nutritional benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids.
Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a lower glycemic index option. Use the same amount of coconut sugar, or slightly less maple syrup due to its liquid form. These substitutions will maintain the caramelization effect while offering different flavor nuances.
Green beans can be swapped with asparagus, broccoli florets, or sugar snap peas. These vegetables have similar cooking times and will complement the salmon well. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the chosen vegetable’s thickness. For a lower-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets instead.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 12-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 22-30 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 100-110 g
- Fat: 40-50 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
Ingredients
For the rub:
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp lemon peel (freshly grated for best aroma)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
For the salmon:
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on preferred for moisture)
- 1/2 lemon (cut into quarters for serving)
For the green beans:
- 3/4 lb green beans (trimmed)
- black pepper (freshly ground for better flavor)
- salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Set aside a large rimmed baking sheet to use later for baking the salmon and green beans.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Sugar Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, lemon zest, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and smoked paprika.
This will create a flavorful rub for the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Season the Salmon Fillets
Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel, then rub a small amount of olive oil over them.
Scatter the brown sugar rub over the fillets, gently massaging it into the fish to ensure even flavor distribution.
If any spice rub falls onto the cutting board, swipe the skin side of the salmon through it.
If time allows, let the salmon marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Arrange Salmon and Green Beans on the Baking Sheet
Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, onto the prepared baking sheet.
In a separate bowl, toss the green beans with a tablespoon of olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, then scatter them around the salmon on the baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon and Green Beans
Bake in the preheated oven until the salmon is cooked through, which should take approximately 12 to 15 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets.
For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 125°F in the thickest part of the salmon.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon Wedges
Once the salmon is fully cooked, remove it and the green beans from the oven.
Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salmon to add a fresh burst of flavor.
