This Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s perfect for weekday dinners or special occasions alike. With its sticky glaze and tender salmon fillets, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the unique flavor profile of honey and spices that makes each bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, and chili flakes creates a truly mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, vegetables, or salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Healthier Option: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this salmon dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less mess in the kitchen!

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Hot Honey Butter Salmon, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures the salmon cooks evenly without sticking, making flipping easy.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping the salmon fillets gently without breaking them apart.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor every time you cook.
• Knife & Cutting board: Essential for preparing garlic and spring onions quickly.

this recipe

Ingredients

This Honey Butter Salmon is sweet, spicy, sticky and outright DELICIOUS!

For the Salmon

• 4 boneless skinless Salmon Fillets, (brought to room temp (preferably around 7oz/200g each))

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
• 6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g Butter, (preferably unsalted (see notes))
• 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar, (sub apple cider vinegar or other white vinegar)
• 1.5 tbsp Soy Sauce, (not dark)

Aromatics

• 1 – 2 cloves of Garlic, (finely diced)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp Chilli Flakes, (see notes)

Additional Seasoning

• Salt & Pepper, (as needed)

For Cooking

• Olive Oil, (as needed)

Garnish

• Finely diced Spring Onion, (to serve (optional))

How to Make Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels then season all over with salt & pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the salmon upside-down and cook for 3 minutes or until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip them over and fry for an additional minute.

Step 3: Baste the Salmon

1. Move the fillets to the top of the pan and drop butter into the bottom of the pan.
2. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon for 1-2 minutes until it starts turning golden. The salmon should be almost cooked in center.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium and add in garlic and chilli flakes.
2. Fry for 10-20 seconds to catch garlic before it browns.
3. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce; keep stirring over a gentle simmer until sauce thickens to a thin caramel consistency, about 5 minutes.
4. Check seasoning/spice at this point and adjust if needed.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Add the salmon back into the pan and baste over with sauce.
2. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce drizzle on top and garnish with finely diced spring onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances the sweetness of the salmon.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful side.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the salmon.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
• Herbed Quinoa: Quinoa cooked in vegetable broth and tossed with fresh herbs provides a nutty base for the salmon.

Topped with Garnishes

• Chopped Spring Onions: Finely diced spring onions add a fresh, oniony bite that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Perfecting your Hot Honey Butter Salmon involves a few key techniques to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Always select high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Pat Dry for Crispiness: Drying the salmon helps achieve a golden crust when cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook just until the salmon is opaque in the center to avoid dryness.
• Baste Generously: Basting with the honey butter sauce enriches every bite, enhancing flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify chili flakes according to your spice preference for personalized heat.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing your Hot Honey Butter Salmon with complementary sides can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
2. Lemon Garlic Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed in lemon juice and garlic create a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
3. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry: Light yet satisfying, this stir-fry combines colorful veggies for an added crunch.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, making them an irresistible pairing.
5. Coleslaw Salad: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and balances the dish’s richness with its tangy dressing.
6. Quinoa Salad with Feta: This protein-packed salad is filled with veggies and crumbled feta, offering a Mediterranean twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Room Temperature: Not bringing the salmon to room temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your fillets sit out for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can dry it out. Aim for a golden crust on the outside while keeping the center slightly flaky and moist.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season the salmon properly can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Rushing the Sauce: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to reduce gently until it reaches a caramel-like consistency.
• Forgetting Basting: Neglecting to baste the salmon with sauce can lead to missing out on those delicious flavors. Make sure to drizzle the sauce over the fillets as they finish cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hot Honey Butter Salmon in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• To freeze, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place the salmon in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and heat gently, basting with leftover sauce if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Hot Honey Butter Salmon:

How do I achieve perfect doneness with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

To ensure perfect doneness, cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains slightly translucent in the center.

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! This recipe works well with other fish like trout or tilapia; just adjust cooking times as needed.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Hot Honey Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

How can I customize my Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor or adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. You can customize it by adding different spices or garnishes according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its sweet and spicy goodness!

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Hot Honey Butter Salmon

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a deliciously balanced dish that brings together sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This quick and easy recipe features tender salmon fillets coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze that’s sure to impress at any dinner table. With preparation taking just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal that highlights the unique flavor profile of honey and spices.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (approx. 7oz/200g each)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1–2 cloves garlic, finely diced
• 1/2 – 1 tsp chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Optional: Finely diced spring onion for garnish

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Instructions

1. 1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. 2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add salmon, cooking skin-side down until golden (about 3 minutes). Flip and cook for an additional minute.
3. 3. Move the fillets to the top of the pan, add butter, and baste the salmon until golden and nearly cooked through.
4. 4. Reduce heat, add garlic and chili flakes, sauté briefly, then stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce. Simmer until thickened.
5. 5. Return salmon to the pan to coat with sauce before serving with optional spring onion garnish.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adjust the level of chili flakes based on your spice preference.