If you’ve ever been disappointed by salmon that turned out dry or bland, I’m here to change that forever. This Honey Garlic Salmon is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness — with a glaze so delicious, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything on your plate.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s restaurant-quality yet weeknight-friendly. In just 20 minutes, you can have tender, flaky salmon coated in a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the pan. Whether it’s a quick dinner for two or a show-stopping dish for guests, this is your new go-to salmon recipe.
1. Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Salmon
- Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic in every bite.
- Quick & easy – From fridge to plate in under 20 minutes.
- Healthy – Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential vitamins.
- Customizable – Make it spicier, add herbs, or swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a low-sodium option.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- ⅓ cup honey (raw honey preferred)
- 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This ensures a golden sear instead of steaming. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2 – Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3 – Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes without moving to develop a crisp crust.
Step 4 – Add the Glaze
Flip salmon carefully. Pour glaze into the skillet and add butter. As the butter melts, spoon the glaze repeatedly over the salmon for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and salmon reaches 140–145°F internal temperature.
Step 5 – Serve
Transfer salmon to plates, drizzle extra glaze on top, and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges.
4. Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Every Time
- Use fresh salmon when possible – It has better texture and flavor than thawed fillets.
- Don’t overcook – Salmon continues cooking after you remove it from heat; pull it off slightly early.
- Reduce the glaze – Let it simmer until thick enough to coat a spoon for maximum flavor.
- Room temperature salmon cooks more evenly – Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking.
5. Flavor Variations to Try
- Asian-Style – Add sesame oil and garnish with toasted sesame seeds & scallions.
- Citrus Twist – Replace lemon juice with fresh orange juice and zest for a bright, tangy glaze.
- Spicy Kick – Stir in sriracha or chili paste for extra heat.
- Herb-Crusted – After glazing, top with panko mixed with dill and parsley, then broil for 1–2 minutes.
6. Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Salmon
- Garlic butter asparagus
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
- Quinoa salad with cucumber and feta
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
7. Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Sugars: 15 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~1.8 g
8. Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap cooled salmon tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or glaze to keep it moist.
9. FAQs
Can I bake this instead of pan-searing?
Yes — bake at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, adding glaze during the last 5 minutes.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure a crisp sear.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely — store it in the fridge for up to 1 week and reheat gently before use.
10. Printable Recipe Card
Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- ⅓ cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Whisk honey, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and pepper flakes.
3. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high. Sear salmon skin-side down for 4–5 min.
4. Flip, add glaze & butter, spoon sauce over salmon for 3–4 min.
5. Serve with extra glaze and garnish.
Nutrition: 420 kcal, 34g protein, 18g carbs, 22g fat.
