When in Doubt, use Maple Syrup (Maple Sesame Salmon Fillets)

I spend so much time trying to create meals that the whole family will enjoy together, I sometimes get a bit discouraged. But then I'll find something the kids will ask seconds of, and at that moment, I know it's all worth it.

To me, the key to a "happy meal" (ha!) is using a main ingredient I know we all like (in this case salmon fillets) and pairing it with flavors that are kid friendly. Maple syrup is always a winner at our house as are Asian flavors. So I mixed and matched and ended up with a recipe I'll be making over and over again.

Maple Sesame Salmon Fillets

Salmon or trout fillets (enough for 4 to 6 people)
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup soy sauce (I use reduced sodium)
2 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp Sriracha sauce (or hot sauce of your choice)

Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Mix all the ingredients except the salmon and the sesame seeds. You can either use a bowl or a ziptop bag. Place the salmon in the marinade and let rest, in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Since the marinade is sweet, I usually line a baking sheet with aluminum paper, it makes clean up much easier. Preheat your broiler and place the oven rack in the middle of the oven. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and broil for about 10 minutes. If you like, you can baste the fish with the marinade once or twice during cooking. To see if the salmon is ready, use a fork to flake the fillets and check if they are cooked through. You'll know that the fish is cooked when its flesh turns opaque. You might need to cook the salmon a little longer, depending on the size of your fillets.

Garnish with sesame seeds and serve with a side of rice and veggies of your choice.