Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is an effortless way to bring a delicious, restaurant-quality meal to your table tonight. This incredibly flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and proves that easy dinner recipes can be truly impressive.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Salmon Fillets: Use skin-on or skinless. Cod or halibut work well as substitutes.
- Honey: Maple syrup is a good alternative for a slightly different sweetness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch (use 1/2 teaspoon per clove).
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free options.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a bright zing. Ground ginger can substitute (use 1/4 teaspoon per 1/2 inch of fresh).
- Lemon: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Small bowl, whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper or aluminum foil, small saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This simple step makes your easy dinner recipes even easier.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet.
3. Whisk the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). This creates your flavorful glaze.
4. Glaze the Salmon
Brush about half of the honey garlic glaze over the salmon fillets. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
5. Bake the Salmon
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times can vary based on thickness.
6. Warm Remaining Glaze (Optional)
While the salmon bakes, you can gently warm the remaining glaze in a small saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes. This makes it perfect for drizzling.
7. Serve and Garnish
Remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle with the warmed extra glaze, if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious easy dinner recipes!
Variation Ideas:
- Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme to the glaze for an herbaceous twist.
- Bake alongside asparagus or broccoli for a complete sheet pan easy dinner.
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the extra sauce.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through to prevent drying it out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before preparing it. Pat it very dry before seasoning.
Q: How do you know when salmon is cooked?
A: Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can you prepare the glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can whisk the glaze ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What if you don’t have fresh ginger?
A: You can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for every 1/2 inch of fresh ginger called for.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: The red pepper flakes are optional. If you omit them, the dish will not be spicy.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
A: Steamed rice, roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or a simple green salad are excellent choices for these easy dinner recipes.
