Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that will elevate your dining experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish balances the richness of salmon with a sticky honey butter glaze. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of honey, butter, and spice creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the salmon perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, vegetables, or on its own; this dish fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Healthy Protein Source: Salmon is packed with nutrients, offering a great way to incorporate healthy fats into your diet.
• Stunning Presentation: The glossy finish of the honey butter glaze makes this dish visually appealing for any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hot Honey Butter Salmon, having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan: Ensures even cooking and prevents the salmon from sticking, making cleanup easy.
• Spatula: Ideal for flipping the salmon without breaking it apart while cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this recipe.

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 (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)
• Finely diced Spring Onion, to serve (optional)

How to Make Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season all over with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

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

Step 3: Baste with Butter

Move the fillets to one side of the pan. Drop butter into the bottom of the pan. Tilt the pan slightly to baste the salmon with melted butter for about 1-2 minutes until they start turning golden. The center should be nearly cooked through, flaking easily when checked.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower heat to low-medium. Add in finely diced garlic and chilli flakes, frying for 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Simmer gently while stirring until thickened to a thin caramel consistency; this should take about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the salmon fillets to the pan and baste them with sauce. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce drizzled on top and garnish with finely diced spring onions if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This delicious Hot Honey Butter Salmon is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light and refreshing side.
• Spinach and Feta Salad: Combine baby spinach with crumbled feta cheese, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed White Rice: Serve the salmon over fluffy white rice that absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Pair with a seasoned quinoa pilaf for a nutty flavor that complements the dish.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly season asparagus and grill until tender; its smoky flavor pairs well with the salmon.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and roast until crispy for a delightful crunch.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the presentation and flavor of the dish.
• Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the top for an extra citrusy kick that brightens every bite.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve the best results when making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Salmon: Letting the salmon sit at room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking throughout.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook salmon fillets in batches if necessary to prevent steaming and ensure a golden crust.
• Baste Frequently: Basting the salmon with the honey butter sauce while it cooks adds depth of flavor and moisture.
• Check for Doneness: The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be slightly translucent in the center when done.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Complement your Hot Honey Butter Salmon with these delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
2. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet coconut rice adds an exotic twist that balances the spicy notes of the salmon.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed in garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the tender salmon.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A healthy alternative, cauliflower rice is light yet filling, perfect under rich salmon.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer sweetness that complements the honey glaze beautifully.
6. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and smokiness that pairs wonderfully with honey butter flavors.
8. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs makes an aromatic side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, even small missteps can affect your dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the room temperature step: Starting with salmon fillets that are too cold can lead to uneven cooking. Always bring them to room temperature before cooking.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoned salmon can taste bland. Be generous with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly; overcooking makes it dry. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the heat when it starts to flake.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken, it may not coat the salmon well. Stir until it reaches a caramel-like consistency for better adhesion.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using old or stale garlic can affect the taste of your dish. Always use fresh garlic for a vibrant flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the salmon to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make Hot Honey Butter Salmon spicier?

You can increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies for extra heat.

Can I substitute other fish for salmon in this recipe?

Yes, you can use trout or any firm white fish as an alternative while adjusting cooking times as needed.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Hot Honey Butter Salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?

While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor that complements the honey beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or serving with your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!