Bacon Wrapped Maple Thyme Salmon

Who doesn't want to make something that's super simple but packs great flavour?!  People, this is it.  On a regular Tuesday evening, I knew we were having salmon....but what to do with it?  I opened the fridge, saw some bacon and fresh Thyme.  Voila!  The beginning of something delish.  Slightly sweet, smoky and herby. 
I took the *skin off of the salmon but I warn you, when you're removing it from the pan, be careful.  The first piece fell apart.  So if it's presentation you're going for, be warned and use a lifter.  This is dead easy and is great for a simple weeknight dinner or company.  I love it when only a handful of ingredients create impact. 

 



Bacon Wrapped Maple Thyme Salmon

Serves 2

2 6oz pieces of salmon (*skin removed - see above)
2 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
1 tbsp real Maple Syrup
2 sprigs fresh Thyme, removed from stem
2 slices of meaty bacon

Preheat the oven to 375F. 
Combine the mustard, maple syrup and Thyme in a bowl.  Add a quick grind of fresh pepper.  Brush half of the mixture over each piece of salmon, reserving the other half for later.  Wrap a piece of bacon around each salmon fillet.
In an oven proof skillet** over medium high heat (I used cast iron), add the olive oil.  Place each piece of fish in the skillet and brown on top and bottom for 2 minutes each, being careful when turning.  After each side has been seared, smear the rest of the maple mixture over the top of the fish and place in the oven for 7 minutes, depending on the size, to finish cooking.  If the bacon on the sides needs a quick sear, gently turn the fish on each side for about 30 seconds once the pan is out of the oven but still hot. 

** When using a skillet in the oven, always remember the handle will remain hot for quite a while.  Once it's out, keep a kitchen towel or oven mitt nearby as a reminder not to grab the handle.  I've done it once....only once.