Honey Garlic Salmon (The Best Recipe!)

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Update : April 5, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Honey Garlic Salmon is a delicious dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. It’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that impresses your family and friends.

How to Make Honey Garlic Salmon

Making Honey Garlic Salmon is simple. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz. salmon (cut into 2-3 fillet strips)
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon warm water
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 lemon (sliced into wedges)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Directions:

  1. Season the surface of the salmon with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine the honey, warm water, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix.
  3. Heat an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat. Add olive oil and pan-fry the salmon, skin side down, for about 1 minute.
  4. Flip the salmon and cook for another minute. Then, turn it over again so that the skin side is facing down.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté until it is slightly browned.
  6. Pour the honey mixture and add the lemon wedges to the skillet. Reduce the sauce until it becomes sticky.
  7. For an optional step, finish by broiling the salmon in the oven for 1 minute, or until the surface becomes slightly charred.
  8. Top the salmon with parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Salmon

Serve Honey Garlic Salmon hot right out of the skillet. Pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The sticky sauce and bright lemon wedges make it visually appealing and tasty. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a dinner party with friends.

How to Store Honey Garlic Salmon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Honey Garlic Salmon will keep well for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Salmon

  • Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon; this helps to sear the fish nicely.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of honey and garlic to suit your taste.
  • Use fresh salmon for the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw it properly first.

Variation

You can switch up this recipe by adding different herbs or spices. Try adding a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist or some fresh herbs like dill for a different flavor profile. For a healthier version, you can bake the salmon instead of pan-frying.

FAQs

1. Can I use fish other than salmon?
Yes, you can use other types of fish like tilapia or trout, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is it necessary to broil the salmon?
No, broiling is optional. You can skip this step and still enjoy a delicious meal.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey mixture in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the salmon.

Print
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Honey Garlic Salmon


  • Author: jena
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Paleo

Description

A delicious dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz. salmon (cut into 23 fillet strips)
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon warm water
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 lemon (sliced into wedges)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Season the surface of the salmon with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine the honey, warm water, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix.
  3. Heat an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat. Add olive oil and pan-fry the salmon, skin side down, for about 1 minute.
  4. Flip the salmon and cook for another minute. Then, turn it over again so that the skin side is facing down.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté until it is slightly browned.
  6. Pour the honey mixture and add the lemon wedges to the skillet. Reduce the sauce until it becomes sticky.
  7. Finish by broiling the salmon in the oven for 1 minute, or until the surface becomes slightly charred (optional).
  8. Top the salmon with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: salmon, honey garlic, easy recipes, weeknight dinner, healthy

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