Description
Honey glazed salmon is a culinary masterpiece that balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors in one simple yet elegant dish. It’s an ideal choice for a wholesome dinner that impresses both in flavor and presentation. The delicate texture of salmon paired with the caramelized richness of a honey-based glaze delivers a restaurant-quality meal that is easy to prepare in the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a healthy weeknight meal, honey glazed salmon offers both taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 oz each
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This mixture should be smooth and well-emulsified. Set aside for use during cooking.
In a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot but not smoking before adding the fish to prevent sticking and to get that desirable golden crust.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes without moving them to achieve a crisp crust. Flip carefully using a fish spatula.
Once flipped, pour the honey glaze over the salmon. Allow the glaze to simmer and reduce slightly, basting the top of the fillets with a spoon. Continue cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium doneness.
Remove the salmon from the skillet and spoon any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For even more flavor, marinate the salmon in the honey glaze for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, jasmine rice, or a fresh green salad.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- To bake instead of pan-sear: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake salmon for 12–15 minutes after pouring the glaze over the fillets in a lined baking dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg