Name: Honey Garlic Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Salmon is a sweet and savory dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. The balance of honey and garlic creates a glaze that caramelizes on the salmon, infusing each bite with a mouthwatering combination of sweetness and savory goodness. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy.
Flip the salmon fillets over and pour the honey garlic sauce over them.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the skillet from the oven, and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes.
Serve the salmon with the honey garlic sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 25 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Variations

Add vegetables: Serve the salmon with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a complete meal.
Spicy honey garlic salmon: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the honey garlic glaze for an extra kick.
Lemon zest: Grate fresh lemon zest over the finished salmon for a citrusy brightness.
Use a grill: Instead of baking, you can cook the salmon on a preheated grill for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may be slightly softer.

FAQs

How long do I bake salmon for?

Bake salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before cooking, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute other firm fish like cod or trout, but cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish.

What should I serve with honey garlic salmon?

Honey garlic salmon pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.

How do I know when salmon is cooked?

Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the salmon on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes until it reduces and becomes more syrupy.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers big flavors in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its sweet and savory glaze and tender, flaky salmon, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s easy to make.