Name: Baked Honey Garlic Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs salmon fillet; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Baked Honey Garlic Salmon

Baked Honey Garlic Salmon is a delightful dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its sweet and savory flavor profile. Imagine biting into a tender fillet of salmon, perfectly glazed with a sticky honey-garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Each bite is an explosion of umami richness, complemented by the aromatic hints of garlic and the subtle tang of apple cider vinegar. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary meal into a special occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner and a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe, making it simple for you to replicate at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Honey Garlic Salmon is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First and foremost, the preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time, which is perfect for busy weeknights. With only a few fresh ingredients, this dish is as family-friendly as it gets. It’s packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it not just a delicious option but also a nutritious one for your loved ones. Additionally, the sweet and savory flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table will be happy. If you’re looking for a recipe that combines healthy eating with mouthwatering tastes, this one is a clear winner.

Ingredients for Baked Honey Garlic Salmon

1 1/2 lbs salmon fillet: Fresh, flaky, and rich in flavor, this salmon fillet serves as the foundation of our dish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The fragrance of freshly minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the sauce, elevating the overall taste.
2 tablespoons honey: This ingredient provides a natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the savory elements.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: The umami richness of soy sauce enhances the flavor profile, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: This tangy addition brightens the dish and balances the sweetness of the honey.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor that complements the fish beautifully, enhancing the overall richness.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: A dash of pepper adds just the right amount of spice, elevating the flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley: This garnish adds a pop of color and freshness, creating visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Directions

To get started on your Baked Honey Garlic Salmon, preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the salmon evenly while creating the ideal environment for caramelization.

In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and pepper. Stir until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Next, take a large piece of foil and place your salmon fillet in the center.

Pour the honey garlic mixture generously over the salmon, ensuring every inch is coated in that sweet and savory goodness.

Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet. This method steams the fish, keeping it moist and flaky.

Place the foil-wrapped salmon on a baking tray and pop it into the oven for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Once cooked, carefully open the foil packet and switch your oven to broil mode. Broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a beautiful caramelization on top.

Finally, garnish your masterpiece with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness.

Tips & Tricks

To make the most of your Baked Honey Garlic Salmon, consider a few chef secrets. First, always use fresh salmon fillets when possible, as they have superior flavor and texture compared to frozen options. If you want to ramp up the flavors even more, let the salmon marinate in the honey-garlic mixture for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the fish with delicious flavors.

If you have any extra sauce, consider drizzling it over steamed vegetables for an added touch. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving your Baked Honey Garlic Salmon, presentation is key. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a vibrant side, roast or steam seasonal vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots, which pair beautifully with the sweet and savory profile of the salmon.

For a complete meal, consider serving a light garden salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette. This will not only provide a refreshing contrast but also enhance the overall dining experience.

Nutritional Information

Baked Honey Garlic Salmon is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious. A typical serving offers around 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet healthy option. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, this dish supports heart health and overall wellness.

While it’s a great option as-is, if you’re looking to lighten it up even further, consider swapping the honey for a sugar-free alternative or reducing the amount used.

Storing Tips & Variations for Baked Honey Garlic Salmon

If you find yourself with leftovers (though unlikely), storing them properly is essential. Allow the salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When it comes to reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent overcooking. For a twist, you can transform the leftover salmon into a delicious salmon salad for wraps or sandwiches!

For those who want to switch things up, try using other types of fish like trout or tilapia, while keeping the cooking method and sauce the same.

Conclusion for Baked Honey Garlic Salmon

There’s something undeniably special about Baked Honey Garlic Salmon. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy nights or special occasions. The sweetness of the honey combined with the savory garlic creates a flavor explosion that will leave your family and friends clamoring for more.

Why wait? Dive into this delightful recipe right away, and enjoy a meal that’s not just satisfying but also a wholesome family favorite!

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just ensure you thaw it fully before cooking to achieve the best results.
What should I serve with Baked Honey Garlic Salmon?
Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced, nutritious meal.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences or substitute it with a more natural sweetener if desired.
How can I tell if my salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance throughout.
How long does leftover salmon stay fresh in the fridge?
Leftover Baked Honey Garlic Salmon can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container.

Baked Honey Garlic Salmon

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None specified

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Description

A delightful dish featuring salmon fillet glazed in a sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 lbs salmon fillet
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
Place the salmon fillet in the center of a large piece of foil.
Pour the honey garlic mixture generously over the salmon.
Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet.
Place the foil-wrapped salmon on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Open the foil packet and switch your oven to broil mode.
Broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.