Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and heat to your table. This easy-to-make recipe is not only tasty but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests. With its sticky glaze and flaky salmon, this dish will surely impress. Plus, it takes just 15 minutes to prepare and cook!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, butter, and spices creates an irresistible glaze that enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.
• Versatile: This recipe pairs well with various sides like rice, vegetables, or salads, making it suitable for any meal.
• Health Benefits: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures that the salmon cooks evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping.
• Cooking utensils: Help in basting the salmon with sauce while keeping it intact during cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Provide accurate measurements for ingredients, ensuring perfect flavor balance.

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 Sauce

• 1/3 cup / 110g honey
• 6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g butter, (preferably unsalted)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce (not dark)
• 1 – 2 cloves of garlic, (finely diced)
• 1/2 – 1 tsp chilli flakes

Additional Ingredients

• 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 Salmon

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 about 3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip them over and fry for an additional 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; tilt to baste the salmon for about 1-2 minutes until golden on that side.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium.
2. Add garlic and chilli flakes; fry for about 10-20 seconds to avoid browning.
3. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce; simmer gently until thickened to a thin caramel consistency (about 5 minutes).
4. Adjust seasoning/spice as preferred.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the salmon back into the pan and baste with sauce.
2. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce and optionally top with finely diced spring onions.

Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Butter Salmon!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. The sweet and spicy flavors make it an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber and Avocado Salad: Combine diced cucumber and avocado with lime juice for a creamy, cool accompaniment.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Serve the salmon on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Quinoa Bowl: Pair with quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.

On Toast

• Salmon Toast: Spread cream cheese on toasted bread and top with pieces of salmon for a tasty appetizer.
• Avocado Toast: Layer slices of avocado on toast, then add portions of hot honey butter salmon for a gourmet twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Chargrill asparagus spears lightly seasoned with olive oil as a crunchy side.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Pair with sweet potatoes that have been roasted until caramelized for an earthy flavor.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To make sure your Hot Honey Butter Salmon turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season the salmon well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Proper pan temperature: Start cooking in a hot pan to achieve that perfect golden crust; medium-high heat is key.
• Baste frequently: While cooking, baste the salmon with the melted butter sauce to infuse more flavor into the fish.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a fork to flake the salmon gently; it should be opaque yet moist in the center when done.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Garnish wisely: A sprinkle of finely diced spring onions adds freshness and color to your dish before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

When planning your meal, pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a rich side that complements the salmon’s sweetness.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans add crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime brings zestiness that balances the dish well.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts roasted until caramelized provide an earthy taste that pairs nicely with honey flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, either grilled or boiled, adds sweetness that matches beautifully with hot honey butter.
6. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice cooked with herbs offers a low-carb option alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, a few common mistakes can impact your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Not Patting the Salmon Dry: Failing to pat the salmon dry can lead to steaming instead of searing. Be sure to use paper towels before cooking.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon too long can result in a dry texture. Keep an eye on it and remove when it’s just flaking.
• Skipping the Basting Step: Neglecting to baste with the honey butter sauce means missing out on flavor. Make sure to coat the salmon well during cooking.
• Using Cold Salmon: Starting with cold salmon can cause uneven cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed while preparing your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hot Honey Butter Salmon in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat, add a bit of oil, and gently reheat the salmon for several minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hot Honey Butter Salmon.

How do I make Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

To make Hot Honey Butter Salmon, season your fillets and cook them in a pan with butter, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes for added flavor.

Can I use other fish for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe calls for salmon, you could also try it with trout or another firm white fish that holds up well during cooking.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Consider serving this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the honey butter sauce.

How spicy is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

The spice level depends on how much chili flakes you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the spice level or adding different herbs. Try it today and enjoy its sweet and savory balance!