Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 1.5 lbs), or 4 individual portions
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Garnishes (Optional):
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon slices or wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fillet to enhance its flavor.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Honey
- Minced garlic
- Soy sauce
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard (if using)
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Step 4: Coat the Salmon
- Pour the honey garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon.
- Use a brush or spoon to spread it across the fillet.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
- Cover the salmon loosely with foil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes (depending on thickness) until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
- Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top.
- Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and add lemon slices for extra freshness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes (rice, veggies, or salad).
Notes
- Don’t overcook! Salmon dries out if baked too long. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the sauce for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Customize the sweetness by adjusting the honey amount to your taste.
- Use fresh salmon for the best taste and texture. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely before cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (~6 oz)
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg