Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, delightful meal that combines the rich flavors of honey and soy with the delicate taste of salmon, this recipe is perfect for you. The sweet and savory sauce complements the fish beautifully, making it a favorite for dinner parties and weeknight meals alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an impressive dish that is sure to satisfy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (all-purpose or light)
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or any vinegar except balsamic)
– 1 large garlic clove, minced
For the Salmon:
– 2 skinless salmon fillets (200g each)
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
Optional Garnishes:
– Sesame seeds
– Finely sliced chives, shallots, or spring onions
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
1. Remove the salmon from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, white vinegar, and minced garlic to create the sauce.
3. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets in the pan and cook the first side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden.
4. Flip the salmon and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden.
5. Pour the prepared sauce over the salmon in the pan. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce thickens too much before the salmon reaches your desired doneness, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to adjust the consistency.
6. Transfer the salmon to serving plates. Drizzle the remaining sauce from the pan over the fillets. Garnish with sesame seeds and finely sliced chives, shallots, or spring onions, if desired.
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Remove the salmon from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, white vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined to create the sauce.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the heated pan and cook the first side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Flip and Cook Again
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes, continuing to achieve a golden color.
Step 6: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the salmon in the pan. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce thickens too much before the salmon reaches your desired doneness, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to adjust the consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the salmon to serving plates. Drizzle the remaining sauce from the pan over the fillets.
Step 8: Garnish
Garnish with sesame seeds and finely sliced chives, shallots, or spring onions, if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Alternative Fish Options
You can use other fish fillets, such as trout or cod, if preferred.
Storage
Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time Depending on Thickness
Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets for best results.
Cook techniques
Preparing Salmon
Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
Seasoning
Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel before seasoning with salt and pepper. This helps create a golden crust when cooking.
Making the Sauce
Combine honey, soy sauce, white vinegar, and minced garlic in a bowl, whisking until blended. This sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Cooking Salmon
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden, then flip and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Thickening the Sauce
After flipping the salmon, pour the sauce over it and cook for another minute. If the sauce thickens too much, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to adjust the consistency.
Garnishing
After transferring the salmon to serving plates, drizzle the remaining sauce over the fillets and garnish with sesame seeds or finely sliced chives, shallots, or spring onions as desired.
FAQ
Can I use skin-on salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use skin-on salmon fillets, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What type of vinegar can I use instead of white vinegar?
Any vinegar except for balsamic vinegar works well in this recipe, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.
What can I serve with this salmon dish?
This salmon pairs well with rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How can I ensure my salmon is cooked to the right doneness?
Use a food thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon. Alternatively, the salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
Conclusion
This honey soy garlic salmon recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a quick and satisfying meal option. The use of fresh ingredients like garlic and the optional garnishes elevate the dish, presenting a visually appealing and delectable entrée that is sure to impress.
Honey-Mustard Glazed Salmon
Replace the honey in the sauce with honey mustard for a tangy twist. Serve with steamed asparagus for a fresh side.
Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
Use the sauce to glaze the salmon and serve it over a bed of rice with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Spicy Garlic Salmon
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick. Pair with quinoa and a simple cucumber salad.
Miso Glazed Salmon
Substitute the soy sauce with miso paste mixed with a bit of water for a rich, umami flavor. Serve with a side of roasted sweet potatoes.
Orange Honey Salmon
Incorporate fresh orange juice into the sauce for a citrusy brightness. Serve alongside a wild rice pilaf.
