This honey garlic glazed salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The salmon fillet is pan-seared to perfection and then coated with a delicious honey garlic glaze, making it both sweet and savory. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 500g salmon fillet
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- 15g butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Season the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillet with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Salmon:
- In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the salmon fillet to the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The salmon should be golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside.
- Prepare the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- In the same pan, add 15g of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the juice of 1/2 lemon and 1 tablespoon of honey to the pan, stirring to combine.
- Glaze the Salmon:
- Return the salmon fillet to the pan, spooning the honey garlic glaze over the top.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly and coat the salmon.
- Serve:
- Serve the honey garlic glazed salmon hot, with your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Cooking Tips
- Salmon Skin: If your salmon has skin, cook it skin-side down first to get a crispy texture.
- Honey: Adjust the amount of honey to your taste preference; more honey will make the glaze sweeter.
- Garlic: For a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two of minced garlic.
Nutritional Benefits
- Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants and has potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system.
- Lemon: Adds vitamin C and a fresh, tangy flavor to the dish.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 2 servings)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in just 20 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, and lemon creates a beautifully balanced glaze.
- Healthy: Salmon is packed with nutrients, making this a nutritious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon?
- Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even cooking.
- What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
- You can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.
- Can I cook this in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
- Yes, you can bake the salmon at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes and then add the glaze for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Is there a substitute for honey?
- Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used as an alternative to honey.
- Can I use other types of fish?
- Yes, this recipe works well with other types of fish such as cod, trout, or tilapia.
- How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
- What sides go well with this dish?
- Steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad are all great options.
- Can I add more herbs or spices?
- Absolutely, adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or spices like paprika, can enhance the flavor.
- Is it okay to leave the skin on the salmon?
- Yes, leaving the skin on helps keep the salmon moist during cooking and adds flavor.
- How can I make the glaze thicker?
- Let the glaze simmer a bit longer in the pan to reduce and thicken before adding the salmon back in.
Conclusion
This honey garlic glazed salmon is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an easy and impressive dish for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for a healthy and delicious meal. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying and nutritious dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
- Yes, frozen salmon works well, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
- Bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute, but fresh lemon juice will give the dish a brighter, fresher flavor.
- Can I cook the salmon in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
- Yes, you can bake the salmon at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes. After baking, you can add the glaze and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Is there a substitute for honey?
- Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar as a substitute for honey, depending on your preference.
- What other types of fish can I use with this recipe?
- This recipe works well with other types of fish such as cod, trout, tilapia, or even chicken breast if you prefer.
- How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. A meat thermometer should read 63°C (145°F) at the thickest part of the fish.
- What sides pair well with honey garlic glazed salmon?
- Steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are all excellent choices to pair with this dish.
- Can I add more herbs or spices to the glaze?
- Yes, you can customize the glaze by adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro, or spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Is it okay to leave the skin on the salmon?
- Yes, cooking the salmon with the skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor. You can remove the skin after cooking if preferred.
- How can I make the glaze thicker?
- To thicken the glaze, allow it to simmer in the pan for a few extra minutes before adding the salmon back in. This will help reduce the glaze and create a thicker consistency.
- Can I use this recipe for grilling?
- Yes, you can grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it. Brush the glaze on the salmon during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Yes, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or additional olive oil.