Introduction to Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Are you a busy professional looking to impress at dinner without spending hours in the kitchen? Enter hot honey butter salmon—a dish that will quickly become your secret weapon. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor, making it suitable for casual weeknight meals or special occasions.
Why Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a Game Changer for Busy Professionals
Imagine coming home after a long day, starving and tired, yet craving something that feels fancy. This is where hot honey butter salmon shines. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have crispy salmon fillets drizzled with a rich, sweet, and spicy sauce that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for your health—important for those hectic workdays.
Make sure to have the ingredients on hand or check out local markets for fresh options. Serve it alongside garlic green beans or creamy mash to round out your meal effortlessly. Meal prep has never been this gourmet; get ready to dazzle yourself and your dinner guests!
Craving more? Let's dive into the full recipe!
Ingredients for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When preparing hot honey butter salmon, the right ingredients elevate the dish to a whole new level. Here’s what you’ll need:
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4 boneless skinless Salmon Fillets
Aim for fillets around 7oz (200g) each, and let them reach room temperature. -
⅓ cup (110g) Honey
This will bring great sweetness and a sticky texture. -
6 tablespoon (3oz, 90g) Butter
Opt for unsalted butter for better control over flavor. -
2 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
If you don’t have this, apple cider vinegar will do just fine! -
1.5 tablespoon Soy Sauce
Stick with a lighter soy sauce to enhance flavors without overpowering them. -
1-2 cloves of Garlic
Finely diced garlic adds an aromatic touch—perfect for basting! -
½ to 1 teaspoon Chilli Flakes
Depending on your spice preference, adjust these to taste. -
Salt & Pepper
Season to your liking for added flavor. -
Olive Oil
Just a drizzle for pan-frying the salmon. -
Optional: Finely diced Spring Onion
A fresh garnish to brighten up your dish!
With these ingredients, you’re just a step away from a delectable meal that will impress your dinner guests. For additional tips and serving suggestions, check out this link.
Preparing Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Cooking salmon can be an aromatic journey, especially when you’re preparing hot honey butter salmon. This dish elegantly combines sweet, spicy, and buttery flavors, making it a superb choice for any dinner. Let's dive into the process of preparing this delicious meal!
Step 1: Ready the salmon fillets
First things first—let's get your salmon fillets ready. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it will help you achieve that coveted crispy crust. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper. If you take the fillets out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking, they'll come to room temperature, allowing for more even cooking.
Step 2: Creating the sizzling crust
With your salmon fillets prepped, it's time to create that sizzling crust that makes this dish irresistible. Heat up a sprinkle of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down. Let them sizzle undisturbed for about 3 minutes, or until a beautiful golden crust forms. This initial frying gives your salmon a lovely texture and enhances its flavor. After that, flip the fillets carefully, cooking for another minute to give the other side a quick sear.
Step 3: Crafting the hot honey butter sauce
Next, we’ll craft the hot honey butter sauce, which elevates the salmon to gourmet status. Reduce the heat to low-medium, and drop in the finely diced garlic along with chili flakes. Sauté for just 10-20 seconds—watch it closely to prevent burning! Then, whisk in your honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, letting the mixture simmer gently. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a caramel-like consistency, which should take around 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning here to suit your spice preference.
Step 4: Combining flavors and finishing the salmon
Now it’s time to unite these delicious flavors. Add the salmon back into the pan and use a spoon to baste it with that luscious sauce. Keep it in the pan for an additional minute, allowing the salmon to absorb all that beautiful flavor. By the end, you should see the fillets glistening with a tantalizing glaze.
Step 5: Plating up your delicious dish
Finally, it’s time to plate up your hot honey butter salmon. You can serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside crisp broccolini for an enticing presentation. Drizzle with any remaining sauce, and feel free to sprinkle some finely diced spring onions on top for a fresh touch.
Enjoy this flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to wow your friends and family! Want to try it with a side of garlic green beans or rice? The possibilities are endless!
Variations on Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Spicy Hot Honey Salmon
For those who thrive on a little heat, consider adding fresh sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to your hot honey butter salmon glaze. This version enhances the sweetness with a spicy kick, catering to your fiery taste buds. Adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the spice level — there's no shame in starting mild and gradually ramping up!
Lemon and Herb Variation
If you’re in the mood for something light and zesty, swap in fresh lemon juice and a medley of herbs like parsley and dill. This lemony twist on your hot honey butter salmon provides a refreshing balance to the dish. A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving will further brighten the flavors, making it perfect for a sunny dinner outdoors.
Explore these variations to keep your meals exciting and tailored to your palate! For more salmon inspiration, check out this garlic butter salmon recipe.
Cooking Notes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When preparing hot honey butter salmon, a few simple tips can elevate your dish.
- Room Temperature Salmon: Ensure your fillets are warmed to room temperature for even cooking. About 30 minutes out of the fridge does the trick!
- Butter Choice: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the dish's saltiness, but if you only have salted, just adjust your seasoning accordingly.
- Spice Level: Start with a conservative amount of chilli flakes; you can always add more heat later by tasting as you go!
- Serving Suggestions: This savory salmon pairs beautifully with sides like Rustic Skin-On Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Green Beans.
By following these notes, you’ll make a delightful dish that’s perfect for impressing friends or a cozy family dinner!
Serving suggestions for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Pair your hot honey butter salmon with sides that highlight its delicious sweetness and savory depth. Here are a few tried-and-true recommendations:
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture complements the rich sauce beautifully. Check out my rustic skin-on mashed potatoes recipe.
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Roasted Broccolini: The slight bitterness of broccolini balances the sweetness of the salmon. You can find a simple method for this here.
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Garlic Green Beans: A quick sauté with garlic elevates green beans, making them crunchy and flavorful. Discover more in my garlic green beans recipe.
These options not only enhance your meal visually but also create a comforting dining experience that everyone will enjoy!
Tips for Making Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Creating hot honey butter salmon is easy with a few simple tips to ensure a flawless dish.
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Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, sustainably sourced salmon fillets. Room temperature fillets cook more evenly.
-
Perfect Basting: When basting, tilt the pan to allow the butter sauce to pool, covering the salmon thoroughly. This intensifies the flavor!
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Control Spiciness: Start with less chili flakes, adjusting to your taste preferences. You can always add more, but it’s tricky to dial back the heat.
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Finish with Freshness: Garnish with finely sliced spring onion for a fresh finish. It adds a touch of color and a crisp bite!
For additional tips and ideas on side dishes, check out this article on pairing salmon with veggies. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Time details for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your hot honey butter salmon is quick and easy, taking about 10 minutes. This includes patting the salmon fillets dry and measuring out your ingredients.
Cooking time
Here's the fun part! Cooking the salmon and creating that delightful sauce will take about 15 minutes. It's amazing how quickly deliciousness can come together!
Total time
In just 25 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal that's sure to impress. For side dish inspiration, consider pairing it with some green beans or a cozy serving of mash.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend dinner!
Nutritional Information for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When whipping up a delish Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it's essential to stay informed about its nutritional content. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 499 calories, making it a satisfying option without overdoing it.
Protein
Packed with 41.84g of protein, this salmon not only caters to your taste buds but also supports your muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
Sodium
With a sodium content of 346mg, this dish is balanced and allows you to enjoy the flavorful blend without exceeding recommended daily limits.
For those keen on a healthy balance, pairing with fresh veggies or whole grains can round out the meal beautifully! Consider linking to articles on healthy meal pairings or the benefits of protein-rich diets for more insights. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. To do this safely, place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Thawed salmon will cook more evenly and beautifully absorb the flavors of the hot honey butter sauce.
What sides pair well with hot honey butter salmon?
To complement your hot honey butter salmon, consider sides like creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans. Roasted broccolini adds a delightful crunch, while a simple side salad can refresh the palate. You can even serve it over fluffy rice for a hearty meal!
How can I store leftovers properly?
If you have any leftovers, store your hot honey butter salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. When reheating, consider using a skillet on low heat to preserve its moisture. Enjoy your delicious salmon bites again soon!
Conclusion on Hot Honey Butter Salmon
In summary, hot honey butter salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of honey and butter with perfectly cooked salmon. It's a quick, satisfying meal ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Try it today, and elevate your dinner routine! Enjoy every bite!
Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Equipment
- large non-stick pan
Ingredients
- 4 fillets Salmon brought to room temp (preferably around 7oz/200g each)
- ⅓ cup Honey
- 6 tablespoon Butter preferably unsalted
- 2 tablespoon Rice Vinegar sub apple cider vinegar or other white vinegar
- 1.5 tablespoon Soy Sauce not dark
- 1 - 2 cloves Garlic finely diced
- ½ - 1 teaspoon Chilli Flakes
- Salt as needed
- Pepper as needed
- Olive Oil as needed
- Spring Onion finely diced, to serve (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels then season all over with salt & pepper.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the salmon upside-down and cook for 3mins, or until a golden crust forms. Flip them over and fry for 1 minute.
- Move the fillets to the top of the pan and drop butter into the bottom of the pan. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon for 1-2mins, or until the other side starts to turn golden. By this point the salmon should be almost cooked in the centre (it will start to flake, also look at the sides). Remove and place to one side.
- Lower heat to a low-medium and add in garlic and chilli flakes. Fry for 10-20seconds, just to catch the garlic before it browns. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce. Keep stirring over a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens to a thin caramel consistency, 5mins or so. Check seasoning/spice at this point and adjust if needed.
- Add the salmon back in and baste over the sauce. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce and finely diced spring onions. Enjoy!
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