Apricot Mustard Salmon Marinade

Name: Apricot Mustard Salmon Marinade
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup apricot jam; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound salmon fillets

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

When I first experimented with this apricot mustard salmon marinade, I was absolutely blown away by the vibrant flavors that emerged. The sweet tang of apricot perfectly complements the sharpness of the mustard, creating a truly unique taste experience for salmon lovers. It has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, especially during summer barbecues. Just a 30-minute soak in this marinade transforms the salmon into a delightful dish full of zest, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful. I can't wait to share this secret with all of you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:13:28.248Z

Creating the apricot mustard salmon marinade was a delightful journey for me. I decided to pair flavors I love, and the combination of sweet apricot jam with spicy mustard intrigued me right away. I marinated the salmon for about 30 minutes, and the result was a beautifully glazed piece of fish that had just the right amount of sweetness balanced with the mustard's bite.

One of the best things about this marinade is its versatility. I discovered that it's also fantastic on grilled vegetables, making it a great choice for a complete summer meal. Don’t skip the marinating time; it really makes a difference in flavor absorption!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and tangy flavor profile that elevates the salmon
Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfect for grilling and summer gatherings

Elevating Salmon with Flavor

The combination of apricot jam and Dijon mustard in this marinade is not only delicious but also functional. The sugar from the jam caramelizes beautifully during cooking, giving the salmon a lovely glossy finish. This means you're not only enhancing the taste but also improving the appearance of your dish. When grilling, look for those slight char marks and crispy edges that indicate it's perfectly cooked.

Additionally, the acidity from the mustard and soy sauce helps to break down the proteins in the salmon, making it tender and juicy. If you're worried about over-marinating, remember that 30 minutes is ideal for this recipe; it infuses flavor without making the fish mushy. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider using the marinade on grilled tofu or tempeh, which can mimic the flavors nicely.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When it comes to cooking the marinated salmon, preheating your grill or skillet to medium heat is crucial. This ensures an even cook throughout. I recommend using a cast-iron skillet or a grill basket to prevent the salmon from sticking and falling apart. You should hear a sizzle when the fish hits the pan or grill; that’s a good sign that you’re cooking it at the right temperature.

For those who prefer a crispier texture, you can finish the salmon under the broiler for an additional 2 minutes after grilling. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning. If you want to add another layer of flavor, consider garnishing the cooked salmon with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your marinade:

Ingredients

1/4 cup apricot jam
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound salmon fillets

Ensure all ingredients are mixed well for an even flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Cook salmon for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Serve the salmon warm, drizzled with any remaining marinade if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This apricot mustard marinade can easily be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can whisk up a batch of the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. This way, on a busy night, you can quickly toss some salmon in the marinade and let it sit while you prepare your sides.

For storage of the cooked salmon, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheating can be done gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent it from drying out.

Variations to Experiment With

There are so many ways to play with this apricot mustard marinade. Feel free to swap out apricot jam for other fruit preserves, like peach or orange marmalade, depending on your preference. Each variation will bring a distinctive sweetness that pairs nicely with salmon.

If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the marinade. It contrasts beautifully with the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. This marinade can also work well with other fish like trout or cod, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish with this marinade?

Yes, this marinade works well with tilapia, trout, or even chicken if you're looking for alternatives.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours, but avoid longer than that to prevent the fish from becoming too mushy.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

For a vegetarian option, try using the marinade on tofu or portobello mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.