A delicious blend of sweet maple glaze and crunchy pistachios
Maple Pistachio Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The tender salmon fillet pairs beautifully with a crunchy pistachio crust, while the maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes lightly during baking. This recipe is quick to prepare, healthy, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of texture and flavor makes it a standout salmon recipe that anyone can prepare with ease.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 salmon fillets, about 2 inches wide, skin removed
- ½ cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Chop the Pistachios
Finely chop the pistachios using a sharp knife or pulse them a few times in a food processor. Avoid grinding them into a powder; you want small crunchy pieces.
3. Make the Pistachio Topping
In a bowl, combine the chopped pistachios with maple syrup, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until the nuts are coated in a glossy, sticky mixture.
4. Prepare the Salmon Fillets
Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the topping adhere. Spoon the pistachio mixture evenly over each fillet, pressing gently so it sticks to the surface.
5. Bake the Salmon
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on how thick the fillets are. The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the pistachio crust should be lightly golden.
6. Serve
Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
✓ Perfect texture
The contrast between soft, flaky salmon and crunchy pistachios makes every bite satisfying.
✓ Naturally sweet and savory
Maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
✓ Quick and healthy
With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a nutritious meal ideal for busy days.
✓ Beautiful presentation
The green pistachio crust looks vibrant and elegant, making the dish suitable for dinner parties.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure to chop the pistachios by hand or with short pulses — avoid turning them into crumbs.
- Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- If your salmon fillets are very thick, you may need an extra 2–3 minutes of baking time.
- Squeeze a little fresh lemon over the salmon before serving for extra brightness.
Conclusion
Maple Pistachio Salmon is a flavorful, wholesome dish that brings together sweetness, crunch, and richness in a beautiful harmony. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a gourmet result with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.