Easy 15-Minute Honey Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Tender, flaky, and glazed to perfection—this Honey Garlic Butter Salmon 🐟🍯 is a 15-minute masterpiece. If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that requires minimal effort and basic pantry staples, this is the one!
The secret is the stovetop-to-broiler technique, which caramelizes the honey glaze into a sticky, golden crust while keeping the inside incredibly moist 😋.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Difficulty: Very Easy 👍
Ingredients
- 2 large Salmon fillets (6 oz each) 🐟
- 3 tbsp honey 🍯
- 2 tbsp melted butter 🧈
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 🍋
- 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley and lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Heat a non-stick oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin) and sear for 3 minutes.
- Pour the honey garlic butter mixture over the salmon. Use a spoon to baste the fillets continuously for another 2 minutes.
- Optional: Move the skillet to the oven and broil at 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes until the edges are slightly charred and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately 😋.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Honey: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or red chili flakes to the glaze for a sweet heat.
- Soy Glaze: Replace half the honey with soy sauce for an Asian-inspired umami flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Tips for Best Results
- Don't Overcook: Salmon continues to cook for a minute after being removed from the heat. Take it off when it reaches an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
- Baste Constantly: Spooning the sauce over the fish while it sears creates that signature sticky coating.
- Room Temp: Let the salmon sit out for 15 minutes before cooking so it cooks evenly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairs perfectly with steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli.
- Serve over a bed of jasmine rice to soak up that delicious honey butter sauce.
- Goes great with our Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out. Avoid high microwave settings.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Fat | 16g |
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Butter Salmon 🐟 is proof that you don't need hours in the kitchen to make a gourmet meal. It's fast, healthy, and absolutely delicious!
❓ FAQ About Honey Garlic Salmon
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure it is completely thawed and patted very dry with paper towels before cooking to get a good sear.
2. Should I leave the skin on?
Leaving the skin on helps protect the delicate flesh from overcooking and adds a boost of healthy Omega-3s.
3. What if I don't have an oven-safe skillet?
Simply finish the cooking on the stovetop by covering the pan with a lid for the final 2 minutes to ensure the top is cooked through.