This tasty Honey Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon is super simple to make! The sweet and salty glaze caramelizes beautifully while the salmon stays juicy and tender. Yum!
Every time I make this dish, my kitchen smells amazing! Serve it with rice and veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels special but is easy enough for any night.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish, and I recommend choosing skin-on fillets. If salmon isn’t available, trout or even chicken thighs can be good substitutes for this glaze.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is great to prevent the dish from becoming too salty. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari or coconut aminos instead. They taste good and work just as well!
Honey: Honey adds a delicious sweetness but can be swapped with maple syrup or agave syrup if needed. For a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia.
Rice Vinegar: This adds tang to the sauce. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used instead. They provide a similar flavor profile.
Ginger: Fresh ginger brings warmth and depth. If you’re out of fresh ginger, use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger. It won’t be as vibrant, but it’ll work in a pinch.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Salmon Skin?
A key tip to getting that beautifully crispy skin is starting with a hot pan! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding oil. This helps to create that sought-after sear.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and avoid moving it for the first few minutes. This allows the skin to get nice and golden.
- Flip the fillets gently using a spatula. Cooking them just a couple of minutes on the other side helps keep the flesh tender.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly crispy salmon that beautifully complements the sweet and savory glaze! Happy cooking!
How to Make Honey Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal to whip up in under 30 minutes total. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until everything is well mixed and blended together. This will be the flavorful marinade for the salmon.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a zip-top plastic bag. Pour half of the prepared soy-honey marinade over the salmon, ensuring it’s well-coated. Reserve the other half of the marinade for later. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have the time—this enhances the flavor!
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the fillets skin-side down in the pan. Cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about three-quarters of the way through.
4. Flip and Glaze:
Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Now, pour the reserved marinade around the salmon in the pan, allowing it to come to a simmer. Spoon the glaze over the salmon as it finishes cooking, letting it thicken slightly.
5. Serve It Up:
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the heat and transfer to serving plates. Spoon additional glaze from the pan over each fillet to keep it deliciously saucy. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a lovely presentation.
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately, ideally with steamed white rice and your favorite vegetable. This meal is sure to be a hit with everyone!
This recipe promises tender, flavorful salmon glazed in a delightful sweet and savory honey-soy sauce. Those fresh toppings will add just the right amount of crunch and flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it first. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure the glaze adheres properly.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave syrup work well for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it’s still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook the fish again.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated salmon on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. You won’t need to flip the salmon, and the skin will still get crispy if baked on a wire rack!
