Dinner just got a major upgrade with this Honey Garlic Salmon—a quick, elegant, and flavor-packed recipe that brings together the best of sweet, savory, and zesty. Perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets develop a crisp golden crust, then get glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the pan. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a go-to for weeknights, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving restaurant-quality seafood at home. It’s satisfying, nutritious, and incredibly easy to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and ready in under 20 minutes
Perfectly seared salmon with crispy edges
Sweet, savory, and garlicky glaze
Uses pantry-staple ingredients
High in protein and omega-3s
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Versatile: pair with rice, veggies, noodles, or salad
Customizable with spice and citrus
Naturally gluten-free with a simple soy sauce swap
Impressive yet easy enough for beginners

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1/4 cup honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 390 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy version: Increase chili flakes or add sriracha for extra heat.
Citrus twist: Swap lemon juice for orange juice or lime for a different citrus note.
Asian-inspired: Add grated ginger and sesame oil to the sauce.
Low-sugar: Reduce the honey and enhance sweetness with a sugar-free alternative.
Herbaceous finish: Garnish with fresh dill, cilantro, or green onions.
Baked version: Bake salmon with sauce at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Grilled salmon: Grill the fillets and brush the sauce on during the last few minutes of cooking.
Add veggies: Toss in snap peas or broccoli to sauté in the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave on low in 30-second intervals until just heated through.

This dish is not recommended for freezing after cooking, as the texture of the salmon and glaze may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to ensure a good sear.

Do I need to use skin-on salmon?

No, both skin-on and skinless work well. Skin-on helps retain moisture and adds crispness when seared.

What does honey garlic sauce taste like?

It’s a rich, glossy glaze with a perfect balance of sweetness from the honey, umami from the soy sauce, and warmth from the garlic and lemon.

Is the cornstarch necessary?

No, the sauce will reduce and thicken slightly on its own. Use cornstarch only if you want a thicker, more clingy glaze.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative or more olive oil.

What’s the best side dish for honey garlic salmon?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad pair beautifully.

How do I know when salmon is cooked through?

The flesh should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I meal prep this?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great protein option for lunch bowls or dinners throughout the week.

What kind of pan is best for searing?

A stainless steel or cast-iron skillet gives the best crust. Avoid nonstick pans if you want a crispy exterior.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Cook the salmon fresh for best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Salmon is a quick, satisfying dinner that delivers restaurant-worthy results with minimal effort. From the crispy sear to the luscious glaze, every bite is packed with bold flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight option or a centerpiece dish for entertaining, this recipe offers the perfect balance of elegance and ease. Keep it in your weekly rotation—you’ll never look at salmon the same way again.

Honey Garlic Salmon (Quick & Flavorful)

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Honey Garlic Salmon is your go-to weeknight dinner—crispy on the outside, flaky and tender inside, and coated in a luscious sweet-and-savory glaze. Made with pantry staples like honey, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon, this pan-seared salmon comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s a healthy, flavor-packed seafood dish that’s perfect for meal prep, clean eating, and satisfying cravings with zero fuss.

Instructions

Prep the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes without moving, until the bottom is golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes on the other side until the salmon is just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until aromatic.
Simmer the glaze: Add honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Optional thickening: For a thicker glaze, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into the sauce and simmer for another minute until glossy and thickened.
Glaze the salmon: Return the cooked salmon to the pan. Spoon the honey garlic sauce over each fillet, coating them well. Let them warm through for 1 minute.
Garnish and serve: Top with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Works well with trout or cod if salmon isn’t available.
Leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day—just warm gently to avoid overcooking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course, Seafood
Method: Pan-Seared
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American