Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines sweetness and spice for a truly unique flavor experience. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The harmonious blend of honey, butter, and chili flakes creates a sticky glaze that elevates the salmon to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting, this Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of total time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, butter, and chili flakes offers a sweet and spicy taste that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish provides essential nutrients while being incredibly satisfying.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the glaze and fresh spring onions make this dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Prevents the salmon from sticking while allowing for an easy cleanup.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 boneless skinless Salmon Fillets, brought to room temp (preferably around 7oz/200g each)
• 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)

For Flavoring

• 1 – 2 cloves of Garlic, finely diced
• 1/2 – 1 tsp Chilli Flakes, (see notes)
• Salt & Pepper, as needed
• Olive Oil, as needed

For Garnish

• finely diced Spring Onion, to serve (optional)

this recipe

How to Make Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

To start, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season them generously all over with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the salmon upside-down in the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes or until a golden crust forms. Flip them over gently and fry for an additional minute.

Step 3: Baste with Butter

Move the fillets to one side of the pan. Add butter to the empty side, tilting the pan slightly. Baste the salmon with melted butter for about 1-2 minutes until it begins turning golden on that side. The fish should be nearly cooked through at this point; it will start flaking around the edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat to low-medium. Add in finely diced garlic and chili flakes to the pan, frying them for about 10-20 seconds to soften without browning. Stir in honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Keep stirring over gentle heat until the sauce thickens into a thin caramel consistency—this should take around five minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Final Touches

Return the salmon fillets to the pan, coating them well with the sauce by basting them once more. Serve immediately with your desired amount of sauce drizzled over top along with finely diced spring onions if using. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon can elevate your dining experience with a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
• Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in vinegar provide a refreshing contrast.

Accompany with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully.
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, serve with creamy coconut-flavored rice.

Add a Touch of Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil complements the salmon’s richness.
• Grilled Zucchini: Slightly charred zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors and adds brightness.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To make your Hot Honey Butter Salmon truly exceptional, consider these essential tips for perfecting your cooking technique.

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets deliver better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Pat Dry Before Cooking: Ensuring the salmon is dry helps achieve that golden crust during frying.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference.
• Baste Generously: Basting the salmon in the honey butter sauce ensures it absorbs maximum flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking; salmon should flake easily but remain moist.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances its juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Complementing your Hot Honey Butter Salmon with the right sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base.
2. Quinoa Salad: Healthy quinoa mixed with vegetables offers a nutty flavor and great texture.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic adds color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that balances out the savory salmon.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that’s light and fluffy, perfect for soaking up sauce.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn offers a sweet crunch that complements the dish perfectly.
7. Braised Green Beans: Tender green beans cooked in broth add elegance and freshness.
8. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can make a significant difference in the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring room temperature: Starting with cold salmon can result in uneven cooking. Always let your salmon fillets sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely and remove the salmon when it just starts to flake.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Ensure you adequately season the salmon with salt and pepper before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the basting step: Basting helps infuse flavor into the salmon. Don’t skip this step when adding butter and sauce; it enhances both taste and moisture.
• Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer for too little time won’t achieve the right consistency. Be patient and let it thicken properly for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen salmon can be kept for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely with a paper towel and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and gently warm the salmon for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delicious dish combining sweet honey, rich butter, and spicy flavors that complement perfectly cooked salmon fillets.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to achieve even results.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! You can reduce or increase the amount of chili flakes according to your taste preferences.

What sides go well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

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

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. With its sweet and spicy glaze, this recipe will impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Hot Honey Butter Salmon

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, making it ideal for both quick weeknight meals and special gatherings. In just under 30 minutes, you can prepare succulent salmon fillets coated in a sticky glaze made from honey, butter, and chili flakes. Each bite offers a delightful crunch with a rich sauce that elevates the experience. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow dinner guests. Pair it with fresh salads or rice for a complete meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (approx. 7oz/200g each)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1–2 cloves garlic, finely diced
• 1/2 – 1 tsp chili flakes
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Olive oil as needed

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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 and cook salmon skin-side down for 3 minutes until golden.
3. Flip the fillets gently and cook for an additional minute.
4. Move the salmon aside, add butter to the pan, and baste the fillets for another minute.
5. Lower heat, add garlic and chili flakes, sauté briefly, then stir in honey, vinegar, and soy sauce until the sauce thickens.
6. Return the salmon to the pan and coat well with the sauce before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet (200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added freshness, garnish with finely diced spring onions. Feel free to adjust chili flakes based on your spice preference. Serve alongside steamed rice or a crisp salad for balance.