This honey glazed salmon is a sweet and tasty dish that’s quick to make! The juicy fish is brushed with a sticky honey sauce that adds a wonderful flavor to each bite.
Cooking fish can be a little scary, but this recipe makes it easy. I love serving it with some rice and veggies for a wholesome meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! You can use sockeye, Atlantic, or king salmon based on what’s available. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try a fillet of trout or even large pieces of tilapia.
Honey: This sweetener gives the salmon its glaze. If you need a substitute due to dietary reasons, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well. They add a nice touch but may slightly change the flavor.
Soy Sauce: This brings umami to the dish. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great alternative. Coconut aminos are another gluten-free option that offers a slightly sweeter taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice or even vinegar can work in a pinch. I find that lime gives a nice twist!
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but following a few simple steps will help you nail it every time! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Always preheat your oven. A hot oven helps achieve that beautiful caramelization.
- Watch the cooking time closely. Salmon typically needs about 10-12 minutes in a 400°F oven, but keep an eye on it. It should look opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Let it rest after baking! This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the salmon moist.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
By focusing on these key aspects, you’ll serve up perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal!
Honey Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for serving)
- Optional: asparagus spears or other veggies for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This honey glazed salmon recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus another 10-12 minutes for baking. You’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and gets that nice glaze. Line a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. It makes life a whole lot easier!
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. This sweet and savory glaze will be the star of the dish, so give it a nice mix! Set aside a bit of the glaze for later; you’ll use it to brush on the salmon while it bakes.
3. Prep the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the glaze stick better. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Arrange the Fillets:
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re spread out enough so they cook evenly!
5. Apply the Glaze:
Brush the honey glaze generously over each salmon fillet. Remember to save some glaze for later—I promise you won’t want to skip this step!
6. Bake the Salmon:
Pop the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The key is to watch it closely. It should flake easily with a fork when it’s done. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
7. Add More Glaze:
At the 6-minute mark, open the oven and brush the salmon with the remaining glaze to build a sticky, caramelized coating. This will make for a beautifully glossy finish!
8. Let It Rest:
Once the salmon is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your salmon with sliced green onions and lemon slices. Serve hot, and for a complete meal, pair it with roasted asparagus or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy every delicious bite of your honey glazed salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your salmon completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing the sealed salmon in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect glaze.
What Can I Serve With Honey Glazed Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a fresh touch, serve it with a simple salad or some roasted sweet potatoes!
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain its moisture. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the honey glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
