Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe is an irresistible blend of sweet, spicy, and sticky flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender salmon fillets with a luscious honey butter glaze. The unique balance of sweetness and heat makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and chili flakes creates a deliciously rich glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this salmon with rice, quinoa, or mixed vegetables to create a complete meal that fits any palate.
• Health Benefits: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and spicy flavor profile appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Hot Honey Butter Salmon, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making it easier to flip the salmon fillets without breaking them.
• Cooking utensils: A spatula helps in flipping the salmon gently while tongs make it easy to handle hot food safely.

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))

For the Glaze

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

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

Step 3: Baste with Butter

1. Move the fillets to the top of the pan.
2. Drop butter into the bottom of the pan, tilting it to baste the salmon for 1-2 minutes until golden on the other side.
3. Remove from heat when almost cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. Lower heat to low-medium and add garlic and chili flakes; fry for 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce; keep stirring until thickened to a caramel consistency over about 5 minutes.
3. Adjust seasoning/spice as desired.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

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

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful meal for family or guests. Here are some creative ideas to complement this dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• A fresh salad, such as arugula or spinach, provides a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair the salmon with seasonal steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a nutritious side that balances the dish’s sweetness.

Accompanied by Rice

• Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious honey butter sauce.

In a Sandwich

• Flake the salmon and serve it in a whole-grain bun with lettuce and tomato for a quick and tasty sandwich option.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of avocado on top of the salmon for a creamy texture that complements the sticky glaze perfectly.

With Quinoa Salad

• Pair with a light quinoa salad featuring cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing for a refreshing side.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve the best results with your Hot Honey Butter Salmon, follow these helpful tips for success.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.

• Room temperature salmon: Allowing fillets to come to room temperature before cooking helps them cook evenly.

• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your salmon while it cooks; overcooking can dry it out. Aim for medium doneness.

• Basting is key: Basting with the honey butter sauce adds extra flavor and moisture to the salmon as it cooks.

• Adjust spice levels: Customize the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.

• Serve immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of delicious sides that complement its sweet and spicy profile.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic serve as a comforting base.

2. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these add crunch and flavor.

3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon zest provides freshness alongside the rich salmon.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances summer vibes when served next to hot honey butter salmon.

5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that complements the honey butter glaze beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Hot Honey Butter Salmon can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can derail your efforts.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon adequately can lead to bland results. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the salmon: Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough. Cook until just flaky in the center for the best texture.
• Skipping the basting step: Skipping the basting can mean missing out on rich flavors. Baste the salmon with sauce for an extra layer of taste.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Ignoring the heat from chili flakes may lead to a dish that’s either too mild or too spicy. Adjust according to your preference for perfect balance.
• Using cold salmon: Starting with cold salmon can result in uneven cooking. Allow fillets to come to room temperature before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hot Honey Butter Salmon in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil; bake for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a non-stick pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon.

What is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delicious dish featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and spicy honey butter sauce.

Can I use other fish for this recipe?

Yes! While salmon works best, you can substitute other firm fish like trout or sea bass, adjusting cooking times as needed.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili flakes or incorporate sliced fresh chilies into the sauce while cooking.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that complement its sweetness and spice.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon offers a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will impress anyone at your table. This versatile recipe allows for customization; feel free to adjust spice levels or experiment with different sides. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare!