Hot Honey Butter Salmon

This Hot Honey Butter Salmon recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish stands out with its sticky glaze and buttery richness. The combination of honey and chili flakes creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey combined with spicy chili flakes creates a unique flavor profile that excites the palate.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with various sides, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
• Healthy Choice: Rich in protein and healthy fats, salmon is a nutritious option that satisfies both taste and dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup while still delivering a deliciously complex dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and prevents sticking, making it easier to flip the salmon without breaking it apart.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the salmon safely while retaining its shape during cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurately measuring ingredients to achieve the 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))
• Salt & Pepper, (as needed)
• Olive Oil, (as needed)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
• 6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g Butter, (preferably unsalted)
• 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, (adjust to taste)

Garnish

• 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.
2. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon upside-down in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip them over carefully and fry for an additional minute.

Step 3: Baste with Butter

1. Move the fillets to one side of the pan.
2. Add butter to the bottom of the pan; tilt it slightly to baste the top of the salmon for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Lower heat to low-medium.
2. Add garlic and chili flakes; fry for about 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce; simmer gently until thickened, around 5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Return the salmon back into the pan; baste over with sauce.
2. Serve hot with your preferred amount of sauce drizzled on top, garnished with finely diced spring onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Butter Salmon!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, how you serve this dish can elevate the overall experience.

Garnish with Spring Onions

• Finely diced spring onions add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your salmon dish.

Serve with Rice

• A side of fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the delicious honey butter sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provide a healthy and colorful contrast to the richness of the salmon.

Pair with Quinoa Salad

• A quinoa salad loaded with veggies creates a nutty and wholesome balance alongside the sweet and spicy salmon.

Add a Side of Coleslaw

• Crunchy coleslaw complements the sticky glaze while adding freshness and texture to the meal.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the salmon enhances its flavor and cuts through the sweetness of the honey.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve perfection with your Hot Honey Butter Salmon, consider these essential tips for cooking and flavor enhancement.

• Use room temperature salmon: Letting your fillets sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking throughout.
• Pat dry thoroughly: Drying the salmon helps create that beautiful golden crust when searing.
• Adjust spice levels: Taste your sauce as it cooks, adjusting chili flakes to suit your preferred heat level.
• Baste generously: Regularly basting your salmon in the hot honey butter sauce enhances flavor and moisture.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking for just enough time prevents overcooking; look for flakiness as an indicator.
• Experiment with garnishes: Try different herbs or zests like cilantro or lime for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Butter Salmon can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness against the sweet glaze of the salmon.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a smoky flavor that balances well with the sweetness of honey.

3. Couscous Salad
   A light couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.

4. Creamy Spinach
   Sautéed spinach cooked in creamy sauce brings a delicious creaminess that pairs nicely with honey butter flavors.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob brings seasonal freshness, enhancing each bite of salmon without overwhelming it.

6. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet-savory dynamic that complements the hot honey butter glaze beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Butter Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not bringing salmon to room temperature: Cold salmon can cook unevenly. Let your fillets sit out for about 15 minutes before cooking for better results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season with salt and pepper can result in bland fish. Always season both sides generously for enhanced flavor.
• Using high heat throughout: Cooking on too high a heat can cause the butter to burn and the salmon to dry out. Start high for searing, then lower the heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting to baste: Basting the salmon with the sauce adds flavor and moisture. Make sure to coat it well for a delicious finish.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and should be removed from heat just as it starts to flake. Use a timer or closely monitor it to avoid dryness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• If you need to freeze, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and reheat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter and warm the salmon gently for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Hot Honey Butter Salmon, here are some frequently asked questions:

What is Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delicious seafood dish featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet and spicy honey butter sauce. It’s perfect for any dinner occasion!

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, while this recipe is focused on salmon, you can also try it with other types of fish like trout or tilapia. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers into the sauce for an extra kick.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

The best indicator is color; cooked salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. A food thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) at its thickest point.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep all ingredients earlier in the day. Cook just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides like rice or steamed vegetables. Feel free to customize it with different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its sweet-spicy goodness!