Looking for a low maintenance, easy weeknight meal that's packed with protein and bursting with flavor? This Brown Sugar Soy Salmon is your answer! The flavor combination in this dish is unbelievably good!

We love Atlantic salmon fillets in our house, it is one of those fresh fishes that never disappoints. It is so versatile, easy to work with and packed with protein! Plus, the way that salmon flakes is so desirable and delectable. Now, although this is a protein focused dish, it contains tons of delicious flavors with sweetness from the brown sugar, a savory umami flavor from the soy sauce, tangy and bright flavors from the fresh lemon juice and a pleasant aroma from the garlic that will have your kitchen smelling like a dream. Each aspect of this meal is so easy and quick, making the prep and cooking for this one a breeze!

How Do You Make the Marinade and What are the Ingredients?

This qualifies as the perfect weeknight meal not only because of its cooking method, but because of this marinate. I am not trying to be biased, but this marinade has the absolute best flavor. I love that the marinade also acts as the sauce, so when the salmon is finished cooking, you do not discard the marinade, but rather serve it as extra sauce. It creates a moist flaky salmon.

Now, to make the marinade you will need a small bowl to start. Then, you add all of the sauce ingredients to it and those include:

• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Good quality olive oil
• Water
• Sesame oil
• Fresh garlic cloves

Once all of the ingredients are mixed well, you place the fish in a baking dish or airtight container and pour the soy sauce mixture over the fresh salmon. I like to use a spoon to scoop some of the sauce over the top of the fillet. If you have skin on your salmon filet, then I would place the fish skin side up so the flesh is marinating in the mixture and then before you bake, flip it back over.

Last, you will place aluminum foil over your baking dish and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes or as long as overnight.

What is the Best Way to Cook this Salmon?

Baking is such an easy way to cook salmon, I think we can all agree! So, with that being said, once your salmon is done marinating and ready for cooking, baking is my preferred method for this dish. This is one of my favorite ways because of its ease and how low maintenance it is, especially during those busy weeks. You bake it in the same dish that you marinate it in and then when done, the marinade turns into the sauce to serve with. This recipe is truly a one stop shop. If you are not are fan of salmon or you have any picky eaters, I can guarantee that you will become a lover one after you make this! You can file it under: "delicious recipes"

Some of you might be making this dish or salmon for the first time and might not know how to tell when it is done, lucky for you I am here to help! You can tell when salmon is fully cooked when the edges of the salmon start to turn golden brown and the fat intensifies and runs out of the flesh, otherwise known as the "white stuff". Once you see that, you can remove it from heat. To further test its doneness, you can take a fork and test out the flakiness. If it flakes easily and has a nice light pink color and is not translucent, it is ready for serving!

What Do I Serve with this Dish?

Truly the options are unlimited when it comes to what to serve this with. But, I will say that this salmon pairs best with steamed jasmine white rice. A if you are in need of some other alternatives, I can recommend:

• Brown rice
• Farro
• Quinoa
• Baked Potato
• Sweet Potato

For vegetables, I love serving it with pickled cucumbers. But, any greens pair well such as:

• broccoli
• broccolini
• green beans
• brussels sprouts

Can I make this with Individual Portions vs. a Full Salmon Fillet?

Yes! Absolutely. if you prefer individual portions or already cut fillets you can absolutely use them. Utilizing individual portions will work great for meal prepping and placing in individual containers. I love the full fillet because I just keep it in the same dish with the sauce and juices and reheat as needed, plus it can serve a whole family or great for parties when hosting. Note: if you choose to use individual portions, the method of prepping will not change.

Did you make this? If so, make sure to tag and follow @prettyplatebymichelle on instagram and tiktok or leave a review below and let me know what you think! I would love to see your Pretty Plate and hear from you!