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Quick Honey Soy Glazed Salmon Recipe 20 Minute Easy Dinner Idea

honey soy glazed salmon recipe - featured image

A fast and flavorful honey soy glazed salmon recipe ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The sticky, balanced glaze combines sweet honey and savory soy with a hint of garlic for a deliciously simple dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons (60 ml) honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glaze: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger if using. Whisk until honey is fully incorporated. Set aside.
  2. Pat salmon dry using paper towels on both sides to help get a nice sear and prevent steaming.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1 tablespoon of oil. Let it get hot but not smoking.
  4. Place salmon skin-side down (or presentation side down if skinless) in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the fish is opaque about halfway up the fillet, forming a golden crust.
  5. Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula. Immediately pour the prepared honey soy glaze over the fillets. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the fish as it thickens and becomes sticky.
  6. Check doneness: salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside. Cook an additional minute or two if needed, avoiding overcooking.
  7. Remove salmon from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before cooking to ensure a good sear and prevent steaming. Add glaze immediately after flipping to create a sticky coating. Use medium to medium-high heat to avoid burning the honey. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Optional additions include fresh ginger, chili flakes, or citrus zest. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey soy salmon, quick salmon recipe, easy dinner, glazed salmon, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon, honey soy glaze