Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Introduction
Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with sweet honey and savory garlic. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, making it a nutritious option. Finally, the sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic creates a unique flavor that enhances the taste of the salmon. It’s sure to impress your family and guests!
How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Making Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is simple. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tsp fresh, chopped)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Pinch of paprika
- 1 lemon, sliced into half-moons
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Line a baking tray with foil or a silicone mat to make cleanup easier.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the tray.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, honey, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour this mixture over the salmon fillets.
- Arrange the lemon slices around and on top of the salmon.
- Bake for 8 minutes, then baste the salmon with the sauce from the tray.
- Continue baking for another 4-7 minutes until the salmon is tender and flaky.
- Serve warm with your favorite potatoes and green veggies. Enjoy!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Serve the Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon warm. It pairs well with roasted potatoes or rice, as well as steamed or sautéed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A simple side salad can also complement the meal nicely. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the extra sauce from the baking tray over the salmon for added flavor!
How to Store Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
To store leftovers, let the salmon cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the garlic and parsley.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste. Add more if you like it sweeter!
- You can also try adding a splash of soy sauce to the butter mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can use different herbs like dill or thyme instead of parsley. You could also try adding a bit of mustard to the sauce for a tangy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before baking.
2. What can I serve with Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?
This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Enjoy making and eating this delicious Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon! It’s sure to become a family favorite.
