Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that balances sweet and spicy flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, this recipe delivers a delicious experience that everyone will love. The standout qualities of this dish include its quick preparation time and the scrumptious sauce that elevates the salmon to a new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and chilli flakes creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the salmon’s natural taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own as a protein-packed snack.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy, caramelized sauce gives the salmon an appealing look that will impress your guests.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is not only tasty but also nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Hot Honey Butter Salmon efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and prevents the salmon from sticking, allowing for an effortless flip.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping the salmon fillets without breaking them apart.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing garlic quick and easy, ensuring even distribution in your sauce.

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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))
• Salt & Pepper, (as needed)
• Olive Oil, (as needed)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
• 6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g Butter, (preferably unsalted)
• 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)
• 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 then season all over with salt & pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the salmon upside-down and cook for about 3 minutes until golden crust forms.
3. Flip them over and fry for another minute.

Step 3: Baste with Butter

1. Move the fillets to one side of the pan.
2. Drop butter into the bottom of the pan.
3. Tilt the pan slightly to baste the salmon with melted butter for about 1-2 minutes until it begins to turn golden.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium.
2. Add in garlic and chilli flakes; fry for about 10-20 seconds just to catch the garlic before it browns.
3. Stir in honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce; keep stirring over gentle simmer until sauce thickens to a thin caramel consistency, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Check seasoning/spice at this point and adjust if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the salmon back into the pan and baste over with sauce.
2. Serve hot with your preferred amount of sauce drizzled on top along with finely diced spring onions if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, the right presentation and accompaniments can elevate this dish even further.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed leaves, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.

Over Quinoa

• Serving the salmon over fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and provides a healthy grain option that balances the sweetness of the sauce.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing with steamed broccoli or asparagus offers a vibrant, colorful plate while adding nutrition and crunch to your meal.

On Rice

• Jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the hot honey butter sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful.

In Tacos

• Flake the salmon into warm corn tortillas, add avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

With Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread on the side makes for a great way to enjoy any leftover sauce. It’s perfect for dipping!

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Creating perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon fillets have better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Look for bright, firm flesh.

• Pat dry before cooking: This helps achieve a golden crust when searing. Moisture can prevent proper browning.

• Control the heat: Cooking at medium-high heat ensures you get that lovely crust without overcooking the inside of the salmon.

• Baste carefully: Basting with the hot honey butter sauce adds extra moisture and flavor; don’t skip this step!

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce as it simmers; feel free to add more chili flakes or salt according to your preference.

• Rest before serving: Letting the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute for optimal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing Hot Honey Butter Salmon with delicious side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort and complement the sweet flavors of the salmon.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while adding a crispy texture that pairs well with fish.

3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs and lemon creates a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.

4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with olive oil and lemon juice adds brightness and nutrients to your plate.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that matches beautifully with hot honey butter.

6. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice is an excellent option that absorbs flavors while remaining light on calories.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn can bring summer vibes to your table alongside this savory dish.

8. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a colorful side that balances out rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon fillets properly will lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced taste.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can result in a dry texture. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for a golden crust while keeping it moist inside.
• Using cold salmon: Starting with cold salmon can lead to uneven cooking. Let the fillets come to room temperature before cooking for better results.
• Neglecting the sauce: Failing to stir or adjust the sauce can leave it too thin or too thick. Keep an eye on it and adjust seasoning as needed for a perfect glaze.
• Not basting enough: Skipping the basting step means missing out on maximizing flavor. Regularly baste the salmon with the sauce while it cooks for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Best consumed within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Honey Butter Salmon.

How do I make Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

To make Hot Honey Butter Salmon, season your fillets, cook until golden brown, then prepare the honey butter sauce by combining honey, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes.

What sides go well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Consider pairing your dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to balance its sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.

Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes! While this recipe is designed for salmon, you can also try it with trout or cod for different but equally delicious results.

How spicy is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

The spice level largely depends on how many chili flakes you use. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is an irresistible dish that’s both sweet and spicy. It’s perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spices or trying different proteins. Enjoy this versatile recipe that’s sure to impress!