Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that brings a unique twist to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this dish features tender salmon fillets glazed in a rich honey butter sauce that will impress your family and friends. The sticky glaze and the hint of heat from chili flakes make every bite absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of honey, butter, and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, vegetables, or salads for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite herbs to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking this amazing Hot Honey Butter Salmon, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making it easier to flip the salmon.
• Measuring cups: Help you get the right quantities for each ingredient, crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.
• Spatula: Ideal for gently flipping the salmon without breaking it apart.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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))
• 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)

Seasonings

• Salt & Pepper, (as needed)

For Cooking

• Olive Oil, (as needed)

For Garnish

• 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 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 about 3 mins 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.
2. Drop butter into the bottom of the pan.
3. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon for 1-2 mins until golden on that side. The center should be almost cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. Lower heat to low-medium.
2. Add garlic and chili flakes; fry for 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce; keep stirring until thickened to a thin caramel consistency for about 5 mins.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

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

Enjoy this delightful Hot Honey Butter Salmon as part of a wholesome meal!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli and Carrots: Lightly steamed to maintain their crunch and paired perfectly with the rich flavors of the salmon.
• Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans drizzled with olive oil make for a refreshing contrast.

On a Bed of Rice

• Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice soaks up the savory honey butter sauce beautifully.
• Quinoa: For a healthy twist, serve the salmon over nutty quinoa, adding texture and protein.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with arugula and spinach dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the salmon.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a nice textural contrast and freshness.

With Toasted Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside slices of warm garlic bread for a comforting touch.
• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Achieving perfection with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can elevate your culinary skills. Here are some helpful tips for an unforgettable dish.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh fillets yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Room Temperature Fillets: Letting the salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on cook times; salmon should flake easily but remain moist inside.
• Baste for Flavor: Regularly basting the salmon while it cooks enhances its flavor and keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili flakes based on your spice tolerance for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add richness to your plate.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, season, and roast until tender, providing a delicious green side.
3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs adds freshness.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory salmon.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light and absorbs flavors well.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the hot honey butter glaze.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a healthy alternative to pasta without sacrificing flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.

• Not Patting the Salmon Dry: Failing to dry the salmon fillets can lead to excess moisture, preventing a nice crust from forming during cooking. Use paper towels to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning.
• Using Cold Salmon: Cooking salmon straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Always bring your fillets to room temperature before starting for best results.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Overcooked salmon becomes dry and unpleasant. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and remove it from heat while it’s still slightly undercooked in the center; it will continue cooking off heat.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Make sure to generously season with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Skipping the Basting Step: Basting enhances flavor and keeps the salmon moist. Don’t skip this step when adding butter and sauce; it’s essential for a delicious finish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat and reheat gently for about 5 minutes, basting occasionally with any leftover sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Honey Butter Salmon that may help you out.

Can I use other types of fish for Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Yes! While salmon is ideal due to its rich flavor, you can easily substitute other fish like trout or tilapia.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or any other mild white vinegar as a suitable substitute in this recipe.

How spicy is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Starting with fewer chili flakes allows you to control the heat better.

Can I prepare Hot Honey Butter Salmon ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon in advance. Just remember not to cook it until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet and spicy glaze makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preferences. Enjoy trying this fantastic recipe!

Print

Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Hot Honey Butter Salmon, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines sweet and spicy elements to elevate your dining experience. This recipe features tender salmon fillets glazed in a rich honey butter sauce, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sticky glaze, complemented by a hint of heat from chili flakes, creates an irresistible flavor profile that will leave your taste buds craving more. With just 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy this nutritious and satisfying meal easily. Pair it with rice, vegetables, or salads for a complete and versatile dinner option.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (approximately 7oz each)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce (not dark)
• 1–2 cloves garlic (finely diced)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp chili flakes
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; add salmon skin-side down and cook for about 3 minutes until golden.
3. Flip the fillets and cook for another minute before moving them to the top of the pan.
4. Add butter to the pan; tilt to baste the salmon for 1-2 minutes until golden.
5. Lower the heat; add garlic and chili flakes, sauté for 10-20 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce; cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
7. Return the salmon to the pan, basting with sauce before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 338
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 73mg

Keywords: Use fresh salmon for better flavor. Let salmon sit at room temperature for even cooking. Adjust spice levels by varying chili flakes.