Honey butter salmon is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich taste of salmon with the sweet, buttery goodness of honey. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. 

The combination of honey and butter not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also gives it a caramelized, golden crust that’s simply irresistible. With a few simple ingredients and some helpful tips, you can make a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make honey butter salmon, gather these simple ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless or with skin)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Drying the salmon helps achieve a crisp, golden crust when cooked.

2. Make the Honey Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the honey and lemon juice. Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and set aside.

3. Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil and the remaining tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts bubbling, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if they have skin.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, then carefully flip the salmon using a spatula. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Glaze the Salmon

Reduce the heat to low and pour the honey butter sauce over the salmon. Spoon the sauce over the fillets as they finish cooking, letting it caramelize slightly for a glossy finish.

5. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the honey butter salmon to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Honey Butter Salmon

• Use fresh salmon: Fresh salmon offers the best flavor and texture. If using frozen salmon, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.
• Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
• Enhance the sauce: For a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey butter sauce.
• Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron pan retains heat well and gives the salmon a beautifully crisp crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey butter salmon is a crowd-pleaser because of its rich, sweet, and savory flavors. The honey caramelizes beautifully, creating a slight crunch on the outside, while the butter adds a smooth, velvety finish. The garlic and lemon juice add brightness and depth to the dish, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fiber: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bake the honey butter salmon instead of pan-searing it?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. Brush the honey butter sauce on the salmon during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use other types of fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as different fish have different thicknesses.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover honey butter salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the honey butter sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it up before pouring it over the cooked salmon.

What sides go well with honey butter salmon?

Honey butter salmon pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Honey butter salmon is a quick, flavorful dish that brings out the best in fresh salmon. The rich honey butter glaze, combined with a hint of lemon and garlic, makes this recipe a winner every time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, honey butter salmon is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors!