Honey Glazed Salmon is a quick and delicious seafood dish, combining the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and soy sauce in a savory glaze. The salmon fillets are baked to tender perfection and pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables or rice, making it an easy weeknight dinner option. Adjust the honey for more or less sweetness based on your taste.
This Honey Glazed Salmon combines a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors in an easy-to-make, delicious dish. With a sticky, flavorful glaze and tender, flaky salmon, it’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
INGREDIENTS
- Salmon Fillets (7 oz each): These provide a rich, tender base for the dish, absorbing the flavors of the glaze beautifully.
- Sea Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- Black Pepper (freshly ground): Adds a touch of mild spice and depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Complements the fresh garlic in the glaze for a double layer of garlic flavor.
Honey Glaze
- Salted Butter (or Olive Oil): Adds richness to the glaze, helping it cling to the salmon fillets.
- Garlic (minced): Essential for a rich, aromatic flavor in the glaze, complementing the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey: The primary sweetener in the glaze, balancing the savory flavors and adding a caramelized finish.
- Soy Sauce (or Tamari): Adds depth and umami flavor, enhancing the overall savory taste of the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Get Prepped
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier.
- Step 2: Craft the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes. The glaze will thicken slightly, creating a rich coating for the salmon.
- Step 3: Season and Glaze
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season generously with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Pour the honey glaze over the salmon, making sure each fillet is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Bake the Salmon
- Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Spoon any pan sauce over the fillets for maximum flavor and a beautiful shine.
- Step 5: Finish
- Once baked, spoon any remaining sauce over the salmon for extra flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like jasmine rice or roasted vegetables.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Honey Glazed Salmon hot with a side of steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a lemon wedge to add a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust the sweetness level by using more or less honey, depending on your preference.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the glaze for a touch of acidity.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for a perfectly flaky texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests using fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends basting the salmon with glaze midway through cooking for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Chef Nigella Lawson adds a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat that complements the sweetness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Honey Glazed Salmon combines sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors for a dish that’s both easy and impressive.
- It’s a versatile recipe that works well with various side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The glaze is rich and sticky, creating a beautiful caramelized finish on the salmon.
Variations
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari for soy sauce.
- Swap honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
- Try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and a subtle nutty flavor.