Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it features succulent salmon fillets coated in a rich honey butter sauce. The balance of sweetness and heat makes this dish irresistible, ensuring your family and guests will come back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes from prep to plate, this dish fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, butter, and garlic creates a rich sauce that complements the salmon beautifully.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your spice preference, making it versatile for all taste buds.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy sauce and vibrant spring onions make it visually appealing for any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and prevents the salmon from sticking, allowing for easy flipping.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the salmon without breaking it apart while basting in the sauce.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients like honey and butter is key to achieving the perfect flavor balance.

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 & Seasoning

• 1 – 2 cloves of Garlic, (finely diced)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp Chilli Flakes, (see notes)
• Salt & Pepper, (as needed)

Additional Ingredients

• Olive Oil, (as needed)
• 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: Cook 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 with Butter

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 or until it starts to turn golden.
3. Once done, remove from heat and place aside.

Step 4: Make the Honey Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium and add in garlic and chili flakes.
2. Fry for 10-20 seconds just until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
3. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce then simmer gently for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Add the salmon back into the pan and baste with sauce.
2. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce drizzled on top and sprinkle finely diced spring onions if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon is all about pairing it with the right accompaniments to enhance its flavors. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, making it versatile for various sides and garnishes.

With Fresh Salad

• Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing contrast to the sticky honey butter glaze.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice: Serve the salmon atop steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, use quinoa as a base; its nuttiness pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors.

On Toast or Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any extra honey butter sauce.
• Crostini: Small crostinis topped with hot honey butter salmon make for great appetizers or snacks.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Herbs: Top with finely diced parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness that brightens each bite.
• Spring Onions: Sprinkle spring onions over the salmon for an added crunch and mild onion flavor.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve the best results with your Hot Honey Butter Salmon, follow these helpful tips. Perfecting this dish will ensure that you enjoy every flavorful bite.

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh fillets will have better texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
• Room Temperature Fillets: Letting your salmon come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking throughout.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking; salmon should flake easily when done.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness in the glaze.
• Baste Generously: Basting the salmon in the sauce while it cooks enhances flavor and moisture.
• Experiment with Spices: Try different spices or herbs in addition to chili flakes for personalized heat levels.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide a comforting side that balances the spice of the salmon.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while their caramelization complements the sweetness of the glaze.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich salmon.
4. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with lemon and herbs makes for a light, zesty accompaniment.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brings sweetness and a bit of char, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from your salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Room Temperature – Not bringing the salmon to room temperature before cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your fillets sit out for about 15-20 minutes before you start.
• Using Cold Butter – Cold butter does not melt well and won’t create the desired sauce consistency. Make sure your butter is at room temperature or slightly melted for best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning – Under-seasoning the salmon can make the dish bland. Be generous with salt and pepper, and taste the sauce as it cooks to adjust flavors.
• Overcooking the Salmon – Cooking salmon too long will dry it out. Keep a close eye on it, and remove it from heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness – If you don’t simmer the sauce long enough, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to cook until it reaches a caramel-like consistency for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen 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 covered with foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop – In a non-stick pan over low heat, gently reheat salmon, basting with leftover sauce if available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to making Hot Honey Butter Salmon:

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

This dish pairs well with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar or any light white vinegar works as a great substitute.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that makes every bite memorable. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting chili flakes or adding different herbs. Whether served on its own or with sides, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hot Honey Butter Salmon

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

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Description

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a flavor-packed dish that combines the sweetness of honey with a hint of heat, creating an irresistible glaze for succulent salmon fillets. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who crave quick yet impressive meals. The rich honey butter sauce, infused with garlic and a touch of chili flakes, elevates the salmon to new heights, ensuring that every bite is both satisfying and delicious. Whether served over fluffy rice or alongside crisp salads, this dish is guaranteed to delight your family and guests alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (7 oz/200g each)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp rice 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)

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Instructions

1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook salmon skin-side down for about 3 minutes until golden, then flip and cook for another minute.
3. Move salmon to the top of the pan and add butter to the bottom; baste the fillets for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Lower heat; add garlic and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant (10-20 seconds). Stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce; simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Return salmon to the pan; baste with sauce before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (200g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 75mg