Hot Honey Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Balanced Flavors: The combination of honey and spice creates an irresistible glaze.
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and antioxidants.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with rice, vegetables, or salads.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and brush generously with the hot honey glaze. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Broil for Caramelization: For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle extra glaze over the salmon and serve with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 15 minutes

Variations

  • Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  • Pan-Seared: Sear the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Milder Version: Reduce the sriracha for a less spicy glaze.
  • Extra Crispy: Add a light panko breadcrumb coating before baking.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw it completely before cooking for the best texture.

What’s the best type of salmon to use?

Wild-caught salmon (like sockeye or coho) is great for flavor, but farm-raised works well too.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes! Reduce the sriracha or omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Absolutely! Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.

Can I substitute the honey?

Maple syrup or agave can work as alternatives.

How do I prevent my salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking. Remove from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C) and let it rest.

What if I don’t have sriracha?

Use chili paste, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper as substitutes.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat before using.

Should I remove the skin?

You can leave it on for crispiness or remove it before cooking if preferred.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Salmon is a deliciously sweet and spicy dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, this dish will quickly become a go-to for a healthy, flavorful meal. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality dinner at home!


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Hot Honey Salmon

Hot Honey Salmon

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This Hot Honey Salmon is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a sticky honey sauce infused with a kick of heat. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

 

  • Author: Ava
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Seafood
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and brush generously with the hot honey glaze. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  • Broil for Caramelization: For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle extra glaze over the salmon and serve with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For an air fryer version, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  • To pan-sear, cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Reduce the sriracha for a milder glaze or add a panko crust for extra crunch.

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