Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration. The combination of honey and butter creates a rich glaze that enhances the natural taste of salmon, making it both sticky and incredibly delicious. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can have a meal ready in under 15 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet heat from the honey and chili flakes elevates the salmon to new heights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, vegetables, or salad for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy sauce and vibrant colors make it a standout dish at any table.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make preparing your Hot Honey Butter Salmon easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and clean-up while preventing the salmon from sticking.
• Spatula: Helps flip the salmon without breaking it, keeping presentation neat.
• Measuring cups: Provides accuracy for ingredients, ensuring balanced flavors in your dish.

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 Glaze:

• 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
• 6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g Butter, preferably unsalted (see notes)

For Flavor:

• 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (sub apple cider vinegar or other white vinegar)
• 1.5 tbsp Soy Sauce, not dark
• 1 – 2 cloves of Garlic, finely diced
• 1/2 – 1 tsp Chilli Flakes (see notes)

Seasoning:

• Salt & Pepper, as needed
• Olive Oil, as needed

To Serve:

• 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.
2. Season all sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon upside-down in the pan; cook for about 3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip over and fry for an additional minute.

Step 3: Baste the Salmon

1. Move the fillets to one side of the pan.
2. Add butter to the bottom of the pan; tilt to let it melt.
3. Baste the salmon for about 1-2 minutes until golden on that side; it should be almost cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium; add garlic and chili flakes.
2. Fry for 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce; simmer gently until thickened (about 5 minutes).

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Return salmon to the pan; baste with sauce.
2. Serve hot topped with your preferred amount of sauce and finely diced spring onions.

Enjoy your Hot Honey Butter Salmon!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon is an opportunity to impress your guests with a delightful combination of flavors. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its sweet and spicy profile.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
• Cucumber and Avocado Salad – Cool cucumbers and creamy avocado provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, sticky salmon.

With Grain Sides

• Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon zest absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it a nutritious side.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base for the salmon.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until slightly charred adds a lovely texture.
• Sautéed Spinach – Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic provides a vibrant green element to your plate.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve restaurant-quality Hot Honey Butter Salmon at home, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your salmon is perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

• Choose Fresh Salmon – Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best taste and texture in your dish.
• Room Temperature Fillets – Letting the salmon come to room temperature before cooking helps ensure even cooking throughout.
• Baste While Cooking – Basting the salmon with butter enhances flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on top.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference; start small and add more if desired.
• Monitor Cooking Time – Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooking can lead to dry fish. Aim for flaky but moist salmon.
• Use High Smoke Point Oil – When heating your pan, use oils like canola or avocado oil which can withstand higher temperatures without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon elevates your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its unique flavor profile.

1. Garlic Rice – Fragrant rice cooked with garlic adds an aromatic side that balances the sweet glaze of the salmon.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli steamed until tender is both healthy and visually appealing alongside the rich fish.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the honey butter flavors.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
5. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini seasoned with herbs adds a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness from the honey.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with herb butter creates a fun and festive side dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the salmon properly can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not bringing salmon to room temperature: Cooking cold salmon can lead to uneven cooking. Let your salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon is best when it’s just cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) without drying out.
• Ignoring the sauce’s consistency: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t cling well to the salmon. Simmer until it reaches a caramel-like consistency for optimal flavor.
• Rushing the cooking process: High heat can burn the butter and garlic. Take your time and cook over medium heat for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions readers have about Hot Honey Butter Salmon:

How spicy is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

The spiciness of Hot Honey Butter Salmon can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili flakes used. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! This recipe works well with other fish like trout or tilapia, but cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.

What should I serve with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Consider pairing this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements its flavors.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

How do I store leftover Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet and spicy glaze makes it suitable for various sides and occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding different herbs or spices that you enjoy!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy sweet and spicy Hot Honey Butter Salmon that’s quick and easy! Try this delightful recipe tonight for a flavorful dinner experience.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1–2 cloves garlic, finely diced
• Chili flakes (to taste)
• Salt & pepper
• Olive oil (as needed)
• Finely diced spring onion (to serve, optional)

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Instructions

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat, cooking salmon skin-side down for about 3 minutes until golden.
3. Flip the fillets and cook for another minute.
4. Move the salmon to one side, add butter, and baste for 1-2 minutes until golden.
5. Lower the heat; add garlic and chili flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
6. Stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce; simmer until thickened.
7. Return salmon to the pan, basting with sauce before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (200g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg