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#### **Instructions:**
##### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Prepare the Grill**
You can either bake or grill the salmon, depending on your preference.
– **For baking:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
– **For grilling:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
##### **Step 2: Prepare the Glaze**
In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and lemon juice. The mixture should have a smooth, pourable consistency. If you like your glaze a bit thinner, you can add a teaspoon of water or additional lemon juice. Taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.
##### **Step 3: Season the Salmon**
Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet or grill pan. Lightly season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper. You can also drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top to keep the fish moist during cooking.
##### **Step 4: Apply the Glaze**
Generously brush the apricot Dijon glaze over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure the fish is well-coated with the glaze, but save some glaze for brushing on top after cooking.
##### **Step 5: Cook the Salmon**
– **For baking:** Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
– **For grilling:** Grill the salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing with additional glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
##### **Step 6: Finish and Serve**
Once the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven or grill. Brush the salmon with any remaining glaze and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve the salmon with lemon wedges for an added burst of freshness.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
The *Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon* pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
– **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the rich, tangy flavor of the salmon and provide additional nutrients.
– **Quinoa or Brown Rice:** A serving of whole grains adds fiber and makes the meal more filling.
– **Mixed Green Salad:** A light salad of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.
– **Mashed Sweet Potatoes:** The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the apricot glaze on the salmon.
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### **Variations and Customizations**
While *Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon* is delicious as written, there are many ways to customize the dish based on your preferences or dietary needs:
– **Different Glazes:** You can experiment with other fruit jams or preserves, such as peach, mango, or fig, to create
different flavor profiles. Similarly, you can swap Dijon mustard for whole-grain mustard for a more rustic texture.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of sriracha to the glaze for a spicy contrast to the sweetness.
– **Add Herbs:** For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or thyme to the glaze or as a garnish.
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### **Conclusion**
*Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon* is a delectable and health-conscious dish that brings together the natural richness of salmon with the tangy-sweet flavors of apricot and Dijon mustard. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced, flavorful meal. With endless customization options and a host of health benefits, *Apricot Dijon Glazed Salmon* is bound to become a favorite in your cooking rotation.
