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easy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

This honey garlic glazed salmon recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, inspired by a cozy evening in Vancouver. The salmon is seared to get a crispy skin, then glazed with a sticky mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish ideal for busy weeknights or special moments.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 Persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets wild salmon, skin on About 6 oz each.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced About 2 teaspoons.
  • 1/4 cup honey 60 ml.
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce 45 ml.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 15 ml.
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes Optional.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
  • toasted sesame seeds Optional for topping.

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowl
  • Spoon for glazing
  • Spatula or fish turner

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with black pepper on both sides.
  2. In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press gently with a spatula to keep the skin flat against the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving, until the skin is crisp and golden brown.
  5. Carefully flip the fillets over and cook the other side for 2 minutes.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic glaze over the salmon fillets. Spoon the glaze over the tops of the fillets as it simmers and thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Once the salmon is cooked through and glossy with the glaze, remove from heat.
  8. Transfer the salmon to plates. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and optional toasted sesame seeds on top.
  9. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For an extra tangy kick, add 1 teaspoon of rice wine vinegar to the glaze.
  • If you prefer to avoid soy sauce, substitute it with a pinch of salt and a dash of fish sauce.
  • To get an even crispier finish, briefly broil the glazed salmon for 1-2 minutes before serving.
  • Use wild salmon when possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with lightly steamed greens like bok choy or garlic sautéed spinach.