Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Nothing beats a perfectly glazed salmon that’s both sweet and savory, with a beautiful caramelized exterior and tender, flaky interior. This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 lemon
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional Additions:
  • Red pepper flakes (for heat)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh chopped parsley
• Pro Tips:
  • Use center-cut salmon fillets for even cooking
  • Wild-caught salmon offers better flavor but farm-raised works too
  • For soy sauce alternatives, use coconut aminos or tamari (gluten-free)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a better sear and helps the glaze stick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Mix the glaze: Combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and the juice of half a lemon in a small bowl. The mixture should be fluid but not too runny.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts and starts to bubble slightly.

4. Place salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 4 minutes until golden brown. Don’t move them around – let them develop a nice crust.

5. Flip the fillets carefully (you should see a golden-brown sear) and cook for 2 minutes.

6. Pour the honey garlic mixture into the pan. The sauce will start bubbling immediately. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon with the sauce for 1-2 minutes until it thickens and turns into a glossy glaze.

Key Details:

🕒 Total Time: 20 mins (Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 15 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 4 people
🔥 Calories: ~380 per serving
⚙️ Equipment: Large skillet, mixing bowl, measuring spoons

Pro Tips & Variations:

– Look for salmon with bright color and minimal white lines (albumin) showing
– Don’t overcook! Salmon is done when it flakes easily but still looks slightly translucent in the center
– For a thicker glaze, let it reduce for an extra minute
– Try adding a tablespoon of bourbon or mirin to the glaze for extra depth

Storage Instructions:

– Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
– Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of water
– Not recommended for freezing as it can affect the texture

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: The salmon should be opaque on the outside but still slightly translucent in the center. It should flake easily with a fork.

Q: Can I make this in the oven?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.

Q: My glaze isn’t thickening, what went wrong?
A: Make sure your pan is hot enough and give the glaze time to reduce. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.