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Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Salmon – The Best Easy Party Recipe

crispy honey garlic baked salmon - featured image

A happy accident turned into a signature party dish: perfectly caramelized, crispy-edged salmon with a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an impressive yet effortless crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the upper third of the oven, about 6 inches from the top heating element.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the glaze for later.
  4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet, skin-side down, leaving at least 2 inches between each fillet.
  5. Brush the glaze generously over the top and sides of each salmon fillet.
  6. Bake on the upper rack for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily and the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (for medium) or 145°F (for well-done).
  7. Turn the oven to broil (high heat). Move the baking sheet to the top rack position, about 4 inches from the heating element. Brush the reserved glaze over the salmon and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, spoon pan juices over the top, and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat the salmon very dry for maximum crispiness. Watch the broiler closely to prevent burning. Let salmon come to room temperature before baking for even cooking. For best results, use fresh garlic and mild honey like clover or orange blossom.

Nutrition

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