Hot Honey Salmon

Salmon is a versatile fish that can be prepared in countless ways, but if you’re looking for an exciting twist on a classic dish, look no further than Hot Honey Salmon. This recipe elevates the natural richness of salmon with a delightful blend of sweet honey and a touch of heat. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Let’s dive into the reasons you should make this dish and how to prepare it!

Top Reasons to Make Hot Honey Salmon

• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy combination of honey and spices takes the flavor of salmon to a whole new level.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Meal: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy finish from the honey glaze and the vibrant colors make this dish a showstopper.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of heat and sweetness to suit your taste.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon: Choose fresh, skin-on salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• 2 tsp avocado oil: This oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, great for cooking.
• Sea salt: To taste, enhances the flavors of the dish.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides a subtle yet delicious depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp paprika: Adds a warm color and a hint of smokiness.
• 2 tbsp salted butter: Gives a rich flavor and helps create a luscious glaze.
• 2 tbsp honey: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and a sticky finish.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Baking sheet: For roasting the salmon in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Optional, for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing bowl: To combine your spices and honey.
• Whisk: For mixing the honey glaze smoothly.
• Spatula: For spreading the glaze over the salmon.

Make Hot Honey Salmon: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help caramelize the honey and create a beautiful glaze on the salmon.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the avocado oil over the salmon and sprinkle with sea salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the spices into the fish to ensure they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the honey and mix well. Allow the mixture to heat for about 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly but not boiling.

Step 4: Glaze the Salmon

Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully spoon the hot honey glaze over the salmon fillets. Make sure to coat them generously for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The glaze should be bubbling and slightly caramelized.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the Hot Honey Salmon with your favorite sides, like sautéed greens or fluffy rice, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Tofu: Substitute salmon with firm tofu, marinated in the same hot honey glaze.
• Cauliflower Steaks: Thick slices of cauliflower can also be roasted with the glaze for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Chickpeas: Toss canned chickpeas in the hot honey mixture and roast for a protein-packed vegan dish.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
• For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Make sure not to overcook the salmon; it should be moist and tender.
• Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Hot Honey Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place the cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

FAQ

Can I use fresh herbs in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a lovely touch. Just sprinkle them on before serving.

What side dishes pair well with Hot Honey Salmon?

Some great side dishes include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness.

Can I make this dish on the grill?

Yes! Preheat your grill and cook the salmon for about 6-8 minutes per side, glazing it during the last few minutes of cooking.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! You can add more paprika, cayenne pepper, or even some sriracha to the honey mixture for an extra kick.

Save & Share

If you love this Hot Honey Salmon recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends and family! Cooking is better when we share our delicious creations with others.

When you create this dish, snap a photo and tag us on social media! We can’t wait to see your beautiful meals! Enjoy every bite of this sweet and spicy salmon dish, and happy cooking!