Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Honey garlic salmon is a delicious, quick dinner that brings together sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness in every bite. This honey garlic salmon is ideal for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for special occasions.
The salmon fillets are pan-seared until golden, then glazed with a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s impossible to resist. Serve it with rice, veggies, or a crisp salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Star Ingredients for Honey Garlic Salmon
- Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish, rich in omega-3s and perfect for soaking up that flavorful glaze.
- Honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce.
- Garlic – Brings robust aroma and depth, infusing the sauce with irresistible flavor.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides the essential umami base, enhancing every bite.
- Olive Oil – Ensures a beautiful sear while keeping the salmon tender inside.
Quick Steps to Make Honey Garlic Salmon
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan and seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the salmon skin-side up until golden and just cooked through, then set aside under foil to keep warm.
Next, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then pour in water, soy sauce, and honey to create the sticky glaze. Thicken it with a quick cornstarch slurry and let it bubble until glossy. Return the salmon to the pan, spoon the sauce generously over each fillet, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
Tips & Tasty Twists
To ensure tender honey garlic salmon, avoid overcooking—salmon should flake easily and stay moist. Fresh or properly thawed frozen salmon both work well; just pat dry for the best sear.
Add a pinch of chili flakes if you crave heat, or stir in a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist. For a full meal, pair it with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a crisp Asian slaw to soak up the luscious sauce.
Keeping Your Salmon Fresh
Leftover honey garlic salmon keeps beautifully for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat to maintain moisture and prevent overcooking.
For longer storage, freeze cooled salmon in a sealed container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above for a quick, delicious meal anytime.
Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- Lemon wedges for serving
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 1/4 pounds salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a spacious skillet set over medium-high heat. Lightly season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper according to taste. Position the salmon skin-side up in the heated pan and sear for approximately 4–5 minutes on each side until thoroughly cooked. Transfer the fillets to a plate and tent loosely with foil to retain warmth. Introduce the minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in the water, soy sauce, and honey, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, whisking until smooth. Gradually incorporate this slurry into the sauce, whisking continuously. Let it boil for about a minute until slightly thickened. Return the cooked salmon to the pan, spoon the glossy sauce generously over the fillets, and garnish with chopped parsley. Accompany with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
