When you need a dinner that’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor, honey garlic salmon is the answer. Tender, flaky salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection, then coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce that’s sweet, savory, and slightly sticky.
The sauce caramelizes on the salmon, creating a beautiful glaze that’s utterly irresistible. Best of all, this dish comes together in under 20 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. Serve it with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If using skin-on salmon, score the skin lightly with a sharp knife (this helps prevent curling).
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, water, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) in the hot skillet.
Cook for 4 to 6 minutes without moving, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Glaze
Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens into a glaze.
Glaze the Salmon
Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the glaze over the fillets. Cook for 1 minute to warm through and coat the salmon evenly.
Serve
Transfer the salmon to plates or a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze. Garnish with sesame seeds, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with rice and steamed vegetables if desired.
This Honey Garlic Salmon is a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.
