Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Salmon is one of the most versatile and nutritious fish you can cook, and this Honey Garlic Salmon recipe is a game-changer. Perfectly tender and flaky salmon fillets are coated with a mouthwatering honey garlic glaze that’s the ideal balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or meal prepping, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious Honey Garlic Salmon, share helpful tips, and offer variations to suit different dietary preferences. Plus, you’ll learn the best ways to store leftovers and what to pair with this dish for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Honey Garlic Salmon is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. It’s easy enough for a beginner cook but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. The combination of honey and garlic creates a rich, caramelized glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
Who is This Recipe For?
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Busy Weeknight Cooks – Ready in under 20 minutes!
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Seafood Lovers – Salmon is rich in omega-3s and pairs beautifully with the honey garlic glaze.
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Healthy Eaters – High in protein and healthy fats, and the glaze is made with natural ingredients.
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Impress Your Guests – The perfect balance of flavors makes this a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) – Skin-on or skinless
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2 tablespoons of soy sauce – Adds a salty umami depth
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3 tablespoons melted butter – Provides richness and helps the glaze stick
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2 tablespoons honey – Adds natural sweetness and caramelization
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3 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the glaze
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Gives the glaze a mild tang and depth
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Balances the sweetness with acidity
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1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a mild smoky flavor
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½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors
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½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick
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1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish
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Optional: Lemon slices – For serving
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✅ Baking sheet
✅ Parchment paper or foil
✅ Small mixing bowl
✅ Whisk
✅ Pastry brush (for glazing)
✅ Oven
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced evenly apart to ensure even cooking.
3. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, soy sauce, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Glaze the Salmon
Brush the glaze generously over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor.
5. Bake
Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Optional: Broil for a Caramelized Finish
For a richer flavor and slightly crisp top, broil the salmon for 2–3 minutes after baking.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
✅ Use fresh salmon – Fresh fillets will have a brighter flavor and better texture.
✅ Don’t overcook – Salmon can dry out quickly. Keep a close eye on the cooking time.
✅ Room temperature fillets – Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Variations and Swaps
✨ Make it Gluten-Free – Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
✨ Add Some Heat – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze.
✨ Make It Dairy-Free – Use olive oil instead of butter.
✨ Swap the Protein – This glaze also works beautifully with chicken or shrimp.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep them fresh:
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
What to Serve With Honey Garlic Salmon
🍚 Steamed Jasmine Rice – Perfect for soaking up the extra glaze.
🥦 Garlic Roasted Broccoli – The crisp texture pairs beautifully with the soft salmon.
🥗 Mixed Green Salad – A light, refreshing side balances the richness of the salmon.
🍷 White Wine – A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s flavors.
FAQ
❓ Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the oven?
Yes! Cook the salmon in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side. Add the glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
❓ How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
❓ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
❓ How can I make the glaze thicker?
Simmer the glaze in a small saucepan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly.
Why This Recipe Works
This Honey Garlic Salmon recipe is simple yet sophisticated. The honey and garlic create a beautifully balanced glaze that’s enhanced by the tang of lemon and the depth of soy sauce. The combination of baking and broiling gives the salmon a tender interior with a slightly crisp, caramelized finish.
Try This Honey Garlic Salmon Tonight!
If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor, this Honey Garlic Salmon recipe is your answer. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, and it comes together in under 20 minutes.
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