Hot Honey Glazed Salmon: A Sweet and Spicy Seafood Delight

When it comes to seafood, salmon is a favorite for its rich flavor and versatility. If you’re looking for a way to make this nutritious fish even more exciting, Hot Honey Glazed Salmon is the perfect recipe. This dish combines the natural richness of salmon with the sweet and spicy kick of hot honey, creating a mouthwatering balance that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or serving up something special, this Hot Honey Glazed Salmon is easy to make and full of flavor.

In this post, we’ll show you how to make perfectly cooked, tender salmon with a caramelized hot honey glaze that delivers just the right amount of heat.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh lemon slices (for squeezing)
• Chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for extra texture)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you plan to broil the salmon for a crispy finish, set your oven to broil for the final step.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this helps the skin crisp up and the glaze stick. Rub the fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) on both sides. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture until it begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Glaze the Salmon

Brush the prepared hot honey glaze generously over the salmon fillets, making sure to cover the tops and sides. Reserve some of the glaze for later.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you want the top to be extra crispy and caramelized, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Add More Glaze

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush with any remaining hot honey glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and garnish with fresh lemon slices, chopped parsley or cilantro, and sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Glazed Salmon

• Choose Fresh Salmon: For the best results, choose high-quality, fresh salmon. Wild-caught salmon has a more robust flavor, but farm-raised works just as well if that’s what’s available.
• Watch the Cooking Time: Salmon can easily become dry if overcooked. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked. You’re looking for 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
• Adjust the Spice: You can control how spicy the glaze is by adjusting the amount of hot sauce. For a milder version, use less hot sauce or opt for a milder variety like Sriracha. For extra heat, choose a hotter sauce like habanero or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
• Don’t Skip the Broil: If you like your salmon with a crispy, caramelized top, broiling for the last few minutes is key. It helps the glaze caramelize, adding texture and depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve your Hot Honey Glazed Salmon alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a healthy and flavorful meal.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier option, serve the salmon over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the extra glaze.
• As a Salad Topper: Flake the glazed salmon and add it to a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a perfect summer meal.

Variations on Hot Honey Glazed Salmon

• Grilled Hot Honey Salmon: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the salmon instead of baking. Brush the glaze on during the last few minutes of grilling to prevent it from burning.
• Maple Hot Honey Glaze: Swap out half of the honey for maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spice of the hot sauce.
• Hot Honey Citrus Salmon: Add a squeeze of fresh orange or lime juice to the hot honey glaze for a bright, citrusy twist that complements the sweetness of the honey and the heat of the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hot Honey Glazed Salmon is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a healthy and easy-to-make dish. The hot honey glaze caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that enhances the richness of the fish. It’s an impressive yet simple dish that works equally well for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making it as good for you as it is delicious.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to spice up your salmon routine, this Hot Honey Glazed Salmon recipe is the perfect way to do it. The combination of tender, flaky salmon with the sweet heat of the hot honey glaze makes for a dish that’s both easy and impressive. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

We’d love to hear how your Hot Honey Glazed Salmon turned out! Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media if you make this dish. Enjoy your sweet and spicy seafood delight!