This sweet honey garlic glazed salmon is a treat! The sticky glaze, with a mix of honey and garlic, gives the fish a tasty twist that’s sure to impress.
Cooking salmon has never been so much fun—I love how it caramelizes! It’s perfect with rice or veggies. You’ll want to make this again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or even tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. If you’re avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as alternatives. They’ll change the flavor slightly, but still taste great!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to for balancing flavor without overwhelming saltiness. If you prefer gluten-free options, tamari or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. Using garlic powder in a pinch works, but fresh offers a brighter taste. Adjust amounts based on your love for garlic!
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth, but it’s optional. For a simpler version, skip it or use ground ginger if you don’t have fresh on hand. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground for equivalence.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve a tender and moist fillet every time. The key is to care for the heat and timing.
- Start by heating olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Too hot can dry out the fish.
- Place salmon skin-side down for even cooking. The skin protects the flesh from drying out.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Don’t rush; let it sizzle!
- When flipping, do it gently to avoid breaking the fillet. Then pour the glaze over the top for added moisture.
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature. Salmon is perfect at about 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness. Use a food thermometer to check.
How to Make Sweet Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger (if you’re using it), vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. Set this sauce aside for later.
2. Cooking the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them skin-side down. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and the fish starts cooking through.
3. Adding the Sauce:
When the salmon is ready to flip, gently turn the fillets over with a spatula. Now, pour the honey garlic sauce over the salmon. Allow the sauce to bubble and reduce slightly while the salmon cooks for another 3-4 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Serving the Salmon:
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Spoon any remaining glaze from the pan over the top of the fillets for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your delicious honey garlic glazed salmon!
Can I Use Different Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have salmon, try using trout or tilapia instead. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as thinner fillets will cook faster. You’ll want to ensure the fish is cooked through but remains moist, so adjust timing accordingly!
How Can I Alter the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey by half or substitute it with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or maple syrup. You can also add a bit more soy sauce or vinegar to balance out the flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture, or use the microwave on low power.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance! Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to cook, just warm it gently in a saucepan before pouring it over the salmon.
