Maple-Glazed Salmon with Riesling

Maple-glazed salmon is a perfect fall dish, combining the richness of salmon with the sweet and slightly smoky flavors of maple syrup. Paired with a crisp and slightly sweet Riesling, this meal is a delightful harmony of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges and fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
• 1 bottle of Riesling wine

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. This mixture will be your flavorful glaze.
3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
4. Sear the Salmon: In an ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Glaze the Salmon: Brush the maple glaze generously over the tops of the salmon fillets. Make sure to coat them evenly.
6. Transfer to the Oven: Place the skillet with the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork and reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, and let the salmon rest for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and lemon wedges.
8. Pair with Riesling: Pour yourself a glass of crisp and slightly sweet Riesling wine to accompany the maple-glazed salmon. The fruity and floral notes of the Riesling will beautifully complement the sweetness of the maple glaze and the richness of the salmon.

This Maple-Glazed Salmon with Riesling is a perfect choice for a cozy fall dinner that captures the essence of the season’s sweetness. Consider adding rice or asparagus as a side to this dish.