Honey Glazed Salmon
Tender salmon fillets pan-seared to perfection with a crispy skin, then coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. This delicious and healthy meal comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Salmon and Glaze
- b.Using paper towels, pat the salmon fillets completely dry on all sides. This is crucial for achieving a crispy skin.
- c.Season both sides of the salmon generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Set the glaze aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sear the Salmon
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer before you add the fish.
- c.Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, skin-side down. Press down gently on each fillet for 10 seconds to ensure the entire skin surface makes contact with the pan.
- d.Cook for 5-6 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and you can see the salmon is cooked about halfway up the side.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Glaze and Finish Cooking
- b.Flip the salmon fillets over. Reduce the heat immediately to medium-low to prevent the glaze from burning.
- c.Pour the prepared honey-garlic glaze over and around the salmon fillets.
- d.Cook for another 2-4 minutes, continuously spooning the glaze from the pan over the top of the fillets. The glaze will thicken as it cooks.
- e.The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the salmon rest in the pan for a minute.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra glaze spooned over the top.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest skin, ensure the salmon is exceptionally dry before it hits the pan. Any moisture will steam the fish instead of searing it.
- 2Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in two batches if necessary to ensure each fillet gets a perfect sear.
- 3Watch the glaze carefully once added, as honey can burn quickly. Lowering the heat is essential.
- 4Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. For a medium-rare, tender result, aim for 125-130°F (52-54°C).
- 5This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Substitute parsley with fresh dill or thyme for a different aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with salmon.
Citrus TwistCitrus Twist
Use fresh orange juice instead of lemon juice and add a bit of orange zest to the glaze for a brighter, sweeter citrus flavor.
Maple GlazedMaple Glazed
Swap the honey for an equal amount of pure maple syrup for a rich, slightly different kind of sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is an excellent source of EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and lowering blood pressure and triglyceride levels.
High-Quality Protein Source
Provides essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, protecting bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Supports Brain Function
The combination of omega-3s and other nutrients in salmon supports cognitive function, improves memory, and may reduce the risk of age-related mental decline.
Natural Anti-inflammatory Properties
Garlic contains allicin and other compounds with potent anti-inflammatory effects, which, combined with the omega-3s in salmon, help combat chronic inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy dish. Salmon is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. The glaze contains sugar from honey, so it's best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.