Introduction to Hot Honey Butter Salmon
If you're in search of a dish that's not only quick to prepare but also tantalizingly delicious, look no further than hot honey butter salmon. This recipe perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and a buttery richness that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Picture succulent salmon fillets seeping in a glaze that's both sticky and savory—it's hard to resist!
What makes Hot Honey Butter Salmon so irresistible?
The secret to the undeniable appeal of hot honey butter salmon lies in its unique flavor combination. The honey provides a delightful sweetness, while the butter adds a velvety texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth. Toss in a hint of garlic and chili flakes, and you’ve got a sauce that elevates the dish from simple to sublime. According to a study by the American Heart Association, incorporating fish like salmon into your diet can lead to heart-health benefits, making this dish not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious choice.
Plus, the quick cooking time means you can whip this meal up on even the busiest weeknights—who doesn't love a gourmet meal that fits into their schedule? So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this hot honey butter salmon!
Ingredients for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal in no time, Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a game changer! Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
Essential Ingredients
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Salmon Fillets: You’ll need four boneless, skinless fillets, around 7oz (200g) each. Bringing them to room temperature ensures even cooking—trust me, it makes a difference!
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Honey: A third of a cup (about 110g) will do the trick! This is what adds that delightful sweetness.
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Butter: Unsalted is preferred (6 tbsp/90g), as it gives you better control over the flavor. Make sure it’s measured accurately for that perfect balance.
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Rice Vinegar: Two tablespoons help brighten the dish. Don't have any? Apple cider vinegar works just as well!
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Soy Sauce: One and a half tablespoons enhances the savory notes. Just stick to the regular, not the dark kind.
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Garlic and Chilli Flakes: One or two cloves of finely diced garlic, plus half a teaspoon (or more for spice lovers) of chili flakes add layers of flavor.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle for cooking, plus salt and pepper to taste.
Once you gather these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Hot Honey Butter Salmon that will have everyone asking for seconds! Don't forget to stop by this site for more tips on healthy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Cooking up a delightful dish like hot honey butter salmon is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to impress your friends and family with a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Gather your ingredients
First things first, let’s gather everything you need. Check your pantry and fridge for the following ingredients for your hot honey butter salmon:
- 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (about 7oz/200g each, brought to room temperature)
- ⅓ cup honey
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
- 1.5 tablespoon soy sauce (use regular, not dark soy)
- 1 - 2 cloves garlic, finely diced
- ½ - 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- Salt & Pepper, as needed
- Olive oil, just a drizzle to sear the salmon
- Finely diced spring onion, for garnish (optional)
Having your ingredients ready can streamline the cooking process, so take a few minutes to prep!
Prepare the salmon fillets
Once your ingredients are assembled, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial! A dry surface helps achieve that delicious sear you’re aiming for. Now, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If you’re a fan of flavor, feel free to sprinkle a little extra chili flakes for that kick!
Sear the salmon to perfection
Now it’s time to heat things up! In a large non-stick pan, drizzle in a little olive oil and set it on medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently lay the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down first. Let them sear without moving them for about 3 minutes, or until a lovely golden crust forms. Then, flip the fillets carefully and fry for another minute.
Make the hot honey butter sauce
While the salmon finishes cooking, it’s time to prepare that irresistible sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium and add the diced garlic and chili flakes to the pan. Fry for about 10-20 seconds—just long enough for the garlic to soften without browning. Then, stir in the honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Keep whisking gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens into a beautiful, thin caramel consistency.
Baste and finish cooking the salmon
Now comes the fun part! Add the salmon fillets back into the pan, allowing them to bask in that glossy hot honey butter sauce. Use a spoon or baster to coat the fillets with the sauce, letting them simmer for an additional minute or two until they’re cooked through and showcase that perfect flaky texture.
And there you have it—your mouthwatering hot honey butter salmon is ready to serve! Garnish with finely diced spring onion if you'd like, and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors. Pairing it with mash or broccolini would elevate your dish even further! For more side ideas, you can check out this guide. Happy cooking!
Variations on Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Spice It Up: Extra Chili Flakes
For those who crave an extra kick, add more chili flakes to your hot honey butter salmon recipe. Start with an additional ½ teaspoon and adjust according to your taste. You can also experiment with fresh jalapeños or even a drizzle of sriracha for that fiery flair. Not only does it elevate the flavor, but it also amps up the heat, making each bite a delicious adventure.
Personalize with Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences! Prefer a tangier bite? Substituting apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar adds another layer of flavor. For a richer sauce, try using maple syrup instead of honey. You could even opt for olive oil instead of butter to make it a lighter dish. Customizing your hot honey butter salmon means it aligns perfectly with your palate.
Explore even more personalized options on sites like Serious Eats to widen your culinary horizons!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When preparing this hot honey butter salmon, a few key tips will elevate your dish from good to great!
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Room Temperature Salmon: Letting your salmon fillets sit out for 30 minutes before cooking ensures even cooking. This little step makes a big difference!
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Perfecting the Sauce: While sautéing garlic and chili flakes, keep an eye on them; you want fragrant notes without burning. It’s about balancing flavors for that sweet and spicy sensation.
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Basting for Flavor: As you baste the salmon in that luscious sauce, be generous! Not only will it enhance the flavor, but it also makes for a beautiful glaze.
For more salmon tips, check out The Kitchn. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Pairing your hot honey butter salmon with the right sides can elevate the dish to new heights! Here are a few suggestions to complement that sweet and spicy flavor:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice that balances the richness of the salmon.
- Sautéed Broccolini: The slight bitterness of broccolini contrasts beautifully with the honey butter sauce, adding a touch of freshness.
- Grilled Green Beans: For a crunchy, vibrant side, toss them on the grill until charred. The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully!
- Fluffy Rice: A simple, versatile option that soaks up the extra sauce.
Feel free to get creative! Adorn your plate with finely diced spring onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. For more inspiration, check out Turkey Bacon or explore some delicious side dishes. Enjoy your meal!
Time Breakdown for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Preparation time
The prep time for this hot honey butter salmon is a quick 5 minutes. Perfect for those busy weekdays when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the cooking takes just 10 minutes. You'll be savoring this sweet, spicy dish in no time!
Total time
Overall, you’ll need only 15 minutes from start to finish. In just a quarter hour, you can have a delightful meal that feels gourmet!
This lightning-fast recipe not only delivers on taste but is also an excellent way to impress your friends or enjoy a cozy night in. If you want more tips on quick meals, check out EatingWell’s guide to 30-minute dinners. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Hot Honey Butter Salmon
When you savor this hot honey butter salmon, you'll experience a delightful balance of flavors while nourishing your body. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional benefits:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 499 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable option for a meal.
Protein
Packed with around 41.84 grams of protein, this dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic source of muscle-building nutrients.
Sodium
With about 346 mg of sodium, it fits well within the recommended dietary guidelines, allowing you to enjoy flavor without overdoing it.
For more dietary insights, you might want to check resources from the USDA or the American Heart Association. Happy cooking!
FAQs about Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh salmon is ideal for achieving that perfect flaky texture, you can definitely use frozen salmon. Just make sure to fully thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. This way, the flavors from the hot honey butter salmon sauce can penetrate beautifully.
What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
This delicious hot honey butter salmon shines when paired with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted broccolini, or even garlic sautéed green beans make excellent companions. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a fluffy bed of rice or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the honey.
How do I store leftovers of Hot Honey Butter Salmon?
If you happen to have leftover hot honey butter salmon, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pan over low heat to prevent drying out. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps for a quick lunch!
For more delicious side suggestions, check out this guide on pairings.
Conclusion on Hot Honey Butter Salmon
In conclusion, hot honey butter salmon is the perfect blend of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible main course. This dish elevates any meal with its quick prep and delicious flavor. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete experience—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!
Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Equipment
- large non-stick pan
- tongs
- Wooden spoon
- Paper Towels
- Sharp Knife
- Chopping Board
Ingredients
Salmon Ingredients
- 4 fillets Salmon Fillets brought to room temp (preferably around 7oz/200g each)
- ⅓ cup Honey
- 6 tablespoon Butter preferably unsalted
- 2 tablespoon Rice Vinegar sub apple cider vinegar or other white vinegar
- 1.5 tablespoon Soy Sauce not dark
- 1 - 2 cloves Garlic finely diced
- ½ - 1 teaspoon Chilli Flakes
- Salt & Pepper as needed
- Olive Oil as needed
- finely diced Spring Onion to serve (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels then season all over with salt & pepper.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the salmon upside-down and cook for 3mins, or until a golden crust forms. Flip them over and fry for 1 minute.
- Move the fillets to the top of the pan and drop butter into the bottom of the pan. Tilt the pan and baste the salmon for 1-2mins, or until the other side starts to turn golden. By this point the salmon should be almost cooked in the centre (it will start to flake, also look at the sides). Remove and place to one side.
- Lower heat to a low-medium and add in garlic and chilli flakes. Fry for 10-20seconds, just to catch the garlic before it browns. Stir in honey, vinegar & soy sauce. Keep stirring over a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens to a thin caramel consistency, 5mins or so. Check seasoning/spice at this point and adjust if needed.
- Add the salmon back in and baste over the sauce. Serve with your preferred amount of sauce and finely diced spring onions. Enjoy!
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