What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? It all starts with a quick and easy homemade recipe like this honey soy glazed salmon, made with just a few ingredients including fresh salmon fillets and a sweet honey glaze, perfect for a family favorite meal. Save this idea for a delicious 25 minute meal solution.

salmon fillets on a plate with text overlay that reads easy 25 – minute honey soy glazed salmon

Introduction

This delectable and easy-to-make honey soy glazed salmon is a perfect dish for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and salmon creates a flavor balance that is both sweet and savory, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those with busy schedules. With its simplicity and creativity, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, using everyday ingredients to create a truly impressive meal.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the honey and soy sauce creates a delicious glaze that complements the salmon perfectly, and the ingredients are easily accessible in most supermarkets.
• The preparation and cooking time are quick and easy, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen.
• The end result is an impressive and tasty dish that is sure to impress friends and family, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include salmon fillets, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The salmon fillets can be fresh or frozen, and the olive oil is used for cooking. The honey and soy sauce make up the base of the glaze, with the garlic and ginger adding extra flavor. For those looking for substitutions, you can use maple syrup instead of honey, and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to make the glaze.
2. Step 2: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin), and sear for 2-3 minutes. Flip the salmon over and brush the glaze all over the top of each fillet.
3. Step 3: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. Step 4: Serve the salmon hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. You can also serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a salad.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet – it should flake easily.
• Use a high-quality honey and soy sauce for the best flavor. You can also add other ingredients to the glaze, such as grated citrus zest or chopped herbs, to give it extra flavor.
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s essential to control the heat to ensure the salmon cooks evenly and doesn’t overcook. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and use a medium-high heat on your stovetop to sear the salmon. When baking, make sure to check the salmon after 12 minutes and every minute thereafter until it’s cooked through.

Crunch Factor

This dish is all about the tender and flaky salmon, but you can add a crunchy element by topping it with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts. You can also serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or broccoli, which add a nice crunch to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to cook the salmon, as it retains heat well and can be transferred directly from the stovetop to the oven.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook the salmon fillets one or two at a time, depending on their size, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Simply place the cooled salmon in a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer. Reheat frozen salmon in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Use a vacuum sealer or airtight container to store the salmon and prevent freezer burn or spoilage.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holidays. Consider packaging the cooked salmon in a decorative tin or container, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of roasted vegetables. You can also include a jar of homemade glaze or a bag of gourmet sesame seeds to add an extra special touch.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices or herbs to the glaze, such as grated ginger or chopped cilantro, to give it extra flavor.
• Use different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu, for a variation on the dish.
• Add some heat to the glaze by incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.

Troubleshooting

• If the salmon is overcooked, it can become dry and tough. Try cooking it for a shorter amount of time or checking for doneness more frequently.
• If the glaze is too thick, try thinning it out with a little bit of water or soy sauce. If it’s too thin, try reducing it on the stovetop until it reaches the desired consistency.
• If you don’t have honey or soy sauce, you can substitute with other ingredients, such as maple syrup or tamari, to create a similar flavor profile.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Simply place the cooled salmon in a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer. Reheat frozen salmon in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the salmon is cooked through.

Conclusion

This easy 25-minute honey soy glazed salmon is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal. With its simple ingredients and fast cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own twist to the recipe – try different spices or ingredients to make it your own. And don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, either in person or through social media. Happy cooking!