Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this irresistible Sugar Spice Salmon recipe, a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. Succulent salmon fillets are coated in a flavorful brown sugar and spice rub made with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for a gentle kick, then baked to caramelized perfection in just 15 minutes. The golden crust locks in moisture, making each bite tender and flaky, while a squeeze of fresh lemon adds a zesty finish. Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this dish is ideal for busy evenings yet elegant enough for entertaining. Serve alongside crisp vegetables or a fresh salad for a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal you'll crave again and again.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the spice rub.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Rub each fillet evenly with olive oil, ensuring all sides are lightly coated.
Generously sprinkle the sugar spice mixture over the top and sides of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to help the rub adhere.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the sugar crust is golden and caramelized.
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Pair the dish with steamed vegetables or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Serving size | (594.5g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1306.1 |
Total Fat 84.8g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 12.4g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
Cholesterol 200mg | 0% |
Sodium 415.0mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 33.0g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 5.7g | 0% |
Total Sugars 27.1g | |
Protein 105.2g | 0% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 62.2mg | 0% |
Iron 5.3mg | 0% |
Potassium 164.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories