This honey soy sauce glazed salmon is super tasty and easy to make! The sweet and salty glaze makes the fish shine and keeps it moist. Yum!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Just mix the glaze, coat the salmon, and bake. Perfect for busy nights when I want something delicious and healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for this recipe, giving you that rich, tender texture. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even chicken breasts for a different but tasty dish.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps create that glossy finish. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can also do the trick. Just remember, they may change the flavor slightly!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari or coconut aminos; both work well without sacrificing the flavor.
Rice Vinegar: This provides a nice tang. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can serve as great alternatives. Use half the amount to start, as they can be a bit stronger.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Glazed Salmon?
A key step in this recipe is achieving that delicious glaze. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk all the glaze ingredients together thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Sear the salmon until it’s golden brown before adding the glaze. This helps lock in moisture.
- Once you add the glaze, keep spooning it over the salmon. This layering helps the sauce stick and thicken beautifully.
- Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but isn’t overcooked. Aim for about medium doneness for the best taste.
These simple tips will help you create that sweet and savory flavor that makes this dish a hit!
How to Make Honey Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed or on as preferred
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for searing)
For Garnishing:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious honey soy sauce glazed salmon comes together in about 15 minutes of prep and 10-15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This will be your glaze that adds flavor and sweetness to the salmon. Set it aside for a moment.
2. Season the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
3. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets into the pan. Let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown, then flip them over to sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Glaze:
Once both sides are nice and seared, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the honey soy glaze over the salmon in the skillet. This will create a delicious, sticky sauce that coats the fish.
5. Cook with Glaze:
While the salmon is cooking, spoon the glaze over the fillets repeatedly for an additional 3-5 minutes. This will help the glaze thicken slightly and ensure the salmon is perfectly cooked through.
6. Serve It Up:
Once the salmon is cooked (it should flake easily with a fork), carefully remove it from the pan and place it on serving plates. Make sure to scoop out any remaining glaze in the pan and drizzle it over the salmon for extra flavor.
7. Garnish:
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top (if using) and add the sliced green onions for a pop of color and crunch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your honey soy sauce glazed salmon immediately, alongside steamed rice and your choice of green vegetables, like green beans or a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the amount of honey or replace half of it with an extra tablespoon of soy sauce. Taste the glaze before cooking to adjust according to your preference.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Salmon?
This salmon goes great with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside colorful roasted vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a complete meal.