Honey Lemon Garlic Salmon

Looking for an easy and delicious salmon recipe? This Honey Lemon Garlic Salmon is the perfect option! With a simple marinade made of honey, lemon, and garlic, this recipe brings out the best in tender salmon, delivering a sweet and savory flavor in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make and full of healthy, vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this baked salmon recipe will become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound salmon
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey (or substitute with pure maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (preferably grainy Dijon)
• ½ lemon, juiced
• Zest from 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 3 cloves garlic, minced)
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray. Place the salmon on the sheet, skin side down.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Generously brush the salmon with the marinade, making sure it’s well coated.
4. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. (For best results, check at 16-18 minutes.)
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Lemon Garlic Salmon is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings together a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The honey, lemon, and garlic create a delicious glaze that infuses the salmon with rich flavor, while keeping the fish tender and juicy. It’s quick to make, requiring just a few ingredients and 20 minutes in the oven, making it a great choice for a healthy, weeknight dinner.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying it out. The fish is done when it easily flakes with a fork.
• Even Coating: For the best flavor, make sure the salmon is evenly coated with the marinade. Brush it on generously before baking.
• Skin On: Keep the skin on the salmon during baking for added moisture and flavor. You can remove it after cooking if you prefer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Garlic Freshness: If you prefer fresh garlic, use 3 cloves of minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
• Sweeteners: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave if you prefer a different sweetener.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.

FAQs

Can I use skinless salmon?
Yes, skinless salmon can be used, but the skin helps retain moisture while baking, so the salmon may be slightly less juicy without it.

Can I make this recipe on the grill?
Yes! You can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Just brush the salmon with the marinade and grill it over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Can I use frozen salmon?
Frozen salmon will work as well! Just be sure to thaw it before cooking for even seasoning and cooking.

Serving

This Honey Lemon Garlic Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also pair it with steamed rice or a quinoa salad for a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Suggestions

• Garnish: For an extra pop of flavor, garnish with fresh lemon slices or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
• Make It a Meal: Serve the salmon alongside grilled asparagus, roasted sweet potatoes, or sautéed spinach for a well-rounded, healthy dinner.
• Wine Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.