Name: Honey Garlic Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

This honey garlic salmon is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together the rich, buttery taste of seared salmon with a sticky-sweet and savory glaze. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s the perfect recipe for a weeknight dinner or when I want something impressive without much fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons honey

3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

I start by seasoning both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.

Then I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

I sear the salmon, skin side down if using skin-on, for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. I remove the salmon and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.

I stir in the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using), letting the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes until it starts to thicken.

I return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. I let them simmer in the sauce for another 1–2 minutes to glaze them nicely.

Finally, I garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 17 minutes

Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the honey for maple syrup when I want a slightly deeper sweetness.

For a citrusy twist, I use orange juice instead of lemon juice.

To make it spicier, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

If I prefer baking, I place the seasoned salmon and sauce in a foil packet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

I also like adding thinly sliced ginger for an extra layer of flavor in the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, spooning a little water or broth into the pan to keep the salmon moist. Microwaving also works in short bursts at medium power, but I try to avoid overcooking it.

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

I check for opaque flesh and easy flaking with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is recommended for perfectly cooked salmon.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I find it best fresh, but I can cook the sauce ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, I sear the salmon and finish it with the warmed sauce.

What can I serve with honey garlic salmon?

I like serving it with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sauce tastes great over grains.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to get a good sear.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it fully gluten-free.

Conclusion

This honey garlic salmon is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something easy, healthy, and full of flavor. With its perfectly seared exterior and rich, garlicky glaze, it’s a dish I keep coming back to. Whether I serve it for a quick solo dinner or a meal with friends, it never disappoints.

📖 Recipe:

Honey Garlic Salmon

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This honey garlic salmon is a quick and flavorful dish featuring seared salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice. It’s a one-pan recipe perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or salad.