Save This Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon recipe is my favorite trick for a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat. The sweet heat of the sauce caramelizes in the oven until the salmon is sticky and tender, with just the right amount of bold flavor. If you crave a dish that is both quick and restaurant special, this is the one to try.
I made this the first time after a long workday when I wanted salmon but something more exciting than just lemon and salt. My husband could not stop raving and now we make it every time there is fresh salmon in the fridge.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Fresh wild salmon gives the best flaky texture and rich flavor If using frozen let it thaw completely
- Honey: Brings both sweetness and glossy stickiness Try for a local or raw variety for best depth
- Sriracha sauce: Delivers the pleasant heat and chili tang Choose your favorite brand for a custom kick
- Soy sauce: Balances flavor with savory and saltiness Look for low sodium if you prefer
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings punch and earthy depth Go for firm smooth cloves
- Lime juice: Fresh squeezed brightens the sauce and balances sweetness Roll the lime first before juicing for max juice
- Olive oil: Lightly coats the fish for moisture and helps crisp the edges Use pure olive oil over extra virgin for high heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel then lay them skin side down on a parchment lined sheet pan Make sure they are spaced apart to caramelize rather than steam
- Mix the Glaze:
- In a small bowl whisk together honey sriracha soy sauce minced garlic lime juice and a splash of olive oil Whisk until smooth and glossy This is your sweet spicy magic
- Brush and Marinate:
- Using a pastry brush generously coat each fillet with the glaze Reserve a few tablespoons to brush on mid bake Let the coated salmon rest for ten to fifteen minutes so flavors infuse
- Bake the Salmon:
- Place the pan in a preheated four hundred degree Fahrenheit oven Bake for twelve to fourteen minutes depending on thickness Midway through open the oven and brush with more glaze to ramp up the sticky coating
- Broil for Finish:
- Turn on the broiler to high for the last one to two minutes until the tops caramelize Keep a close watch to avoid burning The sugars from the honey will bubble and set for that perfect sheen
- Rest and Serve:
- Take out the salmon and let it rest for five minutes before serving This keeps it juicy and makes the glaze cling All done and ready for your dinner table
Save I am always amazed at how a little lime and honey bring out the best in salmon The magic never gets old especially when I make this for my parents on special visits They ask for extra glaze every time
Storage Tips
Cool the salmon to room temperature before storing Leftovers last up to two days in an airtight container in the fridge If possible store sauce and fish separately to keep the glaze fresh When reheating use low heat in the oven so the texture stays tender You can also enjoy chilled on a salad
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have sriracha try another Asian chili sauce or a blend of hot sauce and a tiny bit of sugar Tamari or coconut aminos work in place of soy sauce Maple syrup is a good sub for honey for a different twist If fresh lime is not handy bottled juice works just fine
Serving Suggestions
A bed of fluffy jasmine rice is classic but this also pairs with quinoa or brown rice For a burst of green serve with cucumber salad wilted spinach or roasted broccoli Crusty bread is fun to mop up any leftover glaze For an extra topping sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped cilantro
Cultural Context
Honey and heat combos have deep roots in Asian cuisine especially in dishes balancing sweet spicy salty and sour This salmon bridges that flavor world for a new twist on a classic fish Fillets like this bring restaurant style right to the kitchen Inspired by fusion menus but easy enough for any home cook
Save This recipe is a weeknight favorite you will want to make again and again The sweet spicy glazed salmon turns every dinner into a special occasion
Common Questions
- → How do you prepare the glaze?
Mix honey and sriracha together, optionally adding a splash of soy sauce or lime juice for extra flavor. Brush over the salmon before baking or grilling.
- → What is the best way to cook the salmon?
Baking, pan-searing, or grilling are all effective methods. Cook until the salmon is flaky and the glaze caramelizes slightly.
- → Can I use another fish instead of salmon?
Yes, other firm fish like cod or steelhead trout work well with a honey sriracha glaze and similar cooking methods.
- → Is this dish spicy?
The glaze offers a moderate heat from sriracha, but the honey balances it. Adjust sriracha quantity to your taste preference.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad are excellent accompaniments to complement the flavors of the salmon.