Salmon is already a crowd-pleaser, but this honey garlic recipe takes it to the next level. The combination of tender, perfectly cooked salmon with a savory-sweet glaze will make you rethink how you’ve been preparing salmon before. This seafood dish recipe is so delicious, you won’t want to make salmon any other way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortlessly Delicious: It’s simple to prepare, yet impressive enough for dinner parties and special occasions.
Healthy and Flavorful: Rich in Omega-3s, this dish also packs a punch with a sweet and savory glaze.
Minimal Cleanup: Made in one pan or on a sheet tray, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want to spend more time eating than cleaning.
Versatile Pairings: Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
This seafood dish recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, making it both delicious and accessible:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Salmon: Brush the glaze generously over the salmon fillets, making sure they are fully coated.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Finish with Broiling: For a golden caramelized finish, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: For a perfectly tender texture, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (51°C) for medium salmon.
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will make this dish even better.
- Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your personal preference.
- Crispy Skin Tip: Press the salmon gently with a spatula when cooking to ensure even crisping.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Top with fresh herbs like dill or parsley mixed with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Citrus Twist: Swap lemon for orange or lime juice for a unique flavor variation.
- Miso Glaze: Add a spoonful of miso paste to the glaze for a rich, umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This seafood dish recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Fluffy rice, such as basmati or jasmine
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C). Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the salmon.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. - How do I keep the salmon from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the pan and oil are hot before adding the salmon, and don’t move it until it naturally releases. - Can I grill the salmon instead?
Yes, you can grill the salmon over medium heat, brushing it with the glaze during the last few minutes. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for the glaze.
Conclusion
This honey garlic salmon recipe is guaranteed to elevate your seafood dish repertoire. The perfectly tender salmon paired with a savory-sweet glaze creates a delectable dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Enjoy this seafood dish recipe and taste why it’s the only way to make salmon!