Description
This honey garlic glazed salmon is a game-changer. Juicy, flaky salmon fillets are coated in a rich, caramelized glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and fresh lemon juice. Whether baked or pan-seared, this dish delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in under 30 minutes. Serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a delicious and healthy meal that will impress every time.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, a pinch of red chili flakes, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
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- Gently pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If the fillets have skin, you may score it lightly to promote even crisping during cooking.
- Create the Honey Garlic Glaze:
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- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce (or tamari), and lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar). If desired, incorporate Dijon mustard, red chili flakes, or herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Adjust the balance of sweetness and acidity to suit your taste preferences.
- Cook the Salmon:
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- Stovetop Method: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Sear for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until the skin turns crispy and golden. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is nearly cooked through.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each fillet generously with the prepared glaze. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Glaze the Salmon:
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- For Stovetop: Pour the remaining honey garlic glaze over the salmon fillets during the final minute of cooking. Allow the glaze to simmer and caramelize slightly, coating the salmon evenly.
- For Oven: Halfway through the baking time, baste the salmon with any leftover glaze to enhance the flavor and ensure a glossy finish.
- Garnish and Serve:
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- Once cooked, remove the salmon from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes.
- If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired