Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Name: Hot Honey Butter Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (7oz/200g each); Salt & pepper; Olive oil; 1/3 cup honey; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1.5 tbsp soy sauce; 1-2 cloves garlic (finely diced); 1/2 – 1 tsp chili flakes

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

February 18, 2026

Updated:

February 18, 2026

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This Hot Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that blends sweetness with a hint of spice, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family meal, this salmon recipe delivers exceptional flavor and simplicity. Its sticky glaze enhances the natural richness of the fish, leaving everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, butter, and spices creates a rich and addictive glaze that elevates the salmon.
Versatile Dish: This salmon pairs wonderfully with various sides, from rice to salads, making it suitable for different meals.
Impressive Presentation: The glossy finish of the hot honey butter sauce makes for an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.
Health Benefits: Packed with protein and healthy fats, salmon is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hot Honey Butter Salmon efficiently, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand can streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick frying pan
Cooking spatula
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick frying pan: Ensures that the salmon cooks evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping.
Spatula: Helps in safely flipping the salmon fillets and basting them with sauce without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 boneless skinless Salmon Fillets, preferably around 7oz/200g each
Salt & Pepper, as needed
Olive Oil, as needed

For the Sauce

1/3 cup / 110g Honey
6 tbsp / 3oz / 90g Butter, preferably unsalted
2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (sub apple cider vinegar or other white vinegar)
1.5 tbsp Soy Sauce (not dark)
1 – 2 cloves of Garlic, finely diced
1/2 – 1 tsp Chilli Flakes (see notes)

For Garnish

Finely diced Spring Onion (to serve optional)

How to Make Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula and fry for an additional minute.

Step 3: Baste with Butter

Move the cooked fillets to one side of the pan. Add butter to the empty side, letting it melt. Tilt the pan slightly to baste the salmon with melted butter for about 1-2 minutes until golden on both sides.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low-medium. Add finely diced garlic and chili flakes to the melted butter. Sauté for about 10-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the salmon to the pan, ensuring each piece is well coated in sauce. Serve immediately with extra sauce drizzled on top and sprinkle with finely diced spring onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Butter Salmon!

How to Serve Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Serving Hot Honey Butter Salmon is an opportunity to get creative. This dish’s sweet and spicy flavors pair well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some suggestions for enhancing your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor complements the salmon perfectly.
Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that provides a nice crunch.
Sautéed Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrients to your plate.

Over Rice or Quinoa

Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the honey butter glaze.
Lemon Quinoa: A zesty option that brightens up the dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and a hint of earthiness.
Dill Sprigs: A classic herb that enhances the salmon’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Butter Salmon

To achieve the best Hot Honey Butter Salmon, follow these simple tips. They will help you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Use Room Temperature Salmon: Letting salmon reach room temperature ensures even cooking throughout.
Don’t Skip Basting: Basting the salmon in the hot honey butter sauce keeps it moist and flavorful.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize chili flakes according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking; salmon should flake easily when done.
Add Acid for Balance: A splash of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors even more.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Pairing sides with your Hot Honey Butter Salmon can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add texture and earthy flavors that complement the salmon.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with hot honey flavors.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the salmon.
Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, topped with a vinaigrette for acidity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Hot Honey Butter Salmon even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping Room Temperature: Always bring your salmon fillets to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the salmon from becoming tough.
Not Drying the Salmon: Failing to pat the salmon dry can lead to a soggy texture. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crispier finish.
Ignoring Seasoning: Overlooking the seasoning step can result in bland salmon. Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Cooking at High Heat Only: Cooking at too high of a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Start with medium-high heat, then lower it for even cooking.
Forgetting About Basting: Neglecting to baste the salmon with sauce can lead to missing out on that delicious flavor infusion. Remember to spoon sauce over the fillets as they finish cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Hot Honey Butter Salmon in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation buildup.

Freezing Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for your convenience.

Reheating Hot Honey Butter Salmon

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Add a small amount of oil or butter to a pan over low heat. Heat the salmon gently, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Hot Honey Butter Salmon is cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

What should I serve with Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added crunch.

How can I customize my Hot Honey Butter Salmon?

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili flakes or mixing in other herbs like thyme or dill for extra flavor variety.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Butter Salmon is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor that appeals to many palates. Its sweet and spicy profile allows for plenty of customization based on personal taste preferences. Whether served during a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and explore different sides and toppings!