Ingredients
Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Fresh, boneless, skinless fillets are ideal for this recipe. Wild-caught salmon is preferred for its flavor and health benefits.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the salmon. It helps to crisp up the skin and ensures a tender interior.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning the salmon and enhancing the natural flavor of the fish.
Honey Garlic Glaze:
3 tablespoons honey: The star ingredient that gives the glaze its sweetness and helps it caramelize on the salmon.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic base with a bit of a kick to complement the sweetness of the honey.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a mild tang and helps balance the sweetness of the honey.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: For a slight acidic note to balance the flavors in the glaze.
1 teaspoon grated ginger: Adds warmth and a bit of zest to the glaze.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: For a rich, nutty flavor that complements the honey and garlic.
2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional): To thicken the glaze if you prefer a thicker consistency.
For Garnish (optional):
Sesame seeds: For a touch of crunch and visual appeal.
Chopped green onions: To add a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich glaze.
Lemon wedges: To serve alongside the salmon for a burst of freshness.
Instructions
First Step: Prepare the Salmon
Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning and glaze stick better during cooking. Season both sides of the salmon with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also lightly rub the fillets with olive oil to ensure they cook evenly.
Cook the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fillets are golden brown and cooked through. The salmon should easily flake when tested with a fork. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Second Step: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
Sauté the Garlic and Ginger: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Combine the Glaze Ingredients: Add the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir the ingredients together, allowing the sauce to come to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the glaze, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired consistency.
Third Step: Glaze the Salmon
Coat the Salmon: Once the glaze has thickened to your liking, return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the glaze over the fillets and allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the glaze sticks to the salmon and caramelizes slightly.
Serve: Once the salmon is perfectly glazed, remove it from the heat and transfer the fillets to serving plates. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the top for extra flavor.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Sprinkle the glazed salmon with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and color. You can also serve it with a lemon wedge for a fresh, citrusy bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
Serve: Serve your Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 30g