If you are searching for a dinner that is both sophisticated in flavor yet truly easy to prepare, this Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine a perfectly tender salmon fillet, glossy with a sticky-sweet and savory glaze that balances honey’s natural sweetness and soy sauce’s umami punch. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples to create an irresistible dish that feels fancy, but requires minimal effort. It’s a wonderful way to bring a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your weeknight table, impressing family or guests without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity and the careful harmony of each ingredient. Every component plays an essential role—whether adding depth, moisture, or brightness—making the final dish as delicious as it is visually appealing.
- Salmon fillets (4, 6 oz each): Opt for skin-on for crispiness and to keep the fish moist during baking.
- Low sodium soy sauce (1 ½ tablespoons): Provides that essential umami foundation without overpowering saltiness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps the glaze coat the salmon beautifully.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Brings natural sweetness that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.
- Dijon mustard (1 ½ teaspoons): Adds a subtle tang to balance the glaze and brighten flavors.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
How to Make Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Salmon to Room Temperature
Before cooking, remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the fillets cook evenly and helps achieve that succulent texture every bite deserves.
Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot for optimal cooking. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze once you’re done. Trust me, this little prep saves you time and hassle later.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine low sodium soy sauce, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Whisk until you have a smooth, glossy glaze full of vibrant flavors. This glaze is the secret to that beautiful balance of sweet and salty that makes this salmon pop.
Step 4: Glaze and Arrange the Salmon
Place each salmon fillet skin-side down in your baking dish. Take half of the glaze and brush or spoon it evenly over the tops—this initial coating begins flavor infusion. Keep the other half of the glaze in a clean bowl to use later for an extra burst of glaze during baking.
Step 5: Bake, Brush, and Finish
Bake the salmon for 12 minutes undisturbed to allow it to start cooking through and for the glaze to begin caramelizing. Then, brush the fillets with the remaining glaze for a beautiful shiny finish. Continue baking for an additional 2 to 8 minutes, adjusting for the thickness of your fillets and your preferred doneness. Look for the telltale sign—the salmon should flake easily with a fork. If you want to be precise, note that the FDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F, though many chefs prefer 125-130°F followed by a short rest for juicy perfection.
How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the glossy glaze, fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a pleasing crunch and nutty flavor, while chopped green onions offer a bright, fresh bite. Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh wedge of lime or lemon for squeezing over the top—its acidity brightens and balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing contrast, try serving with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which soak up the extra glaze just perfectly. A crisp cucumber salad or sautéed garlic green beans provide light, crunchy textures that balance the tender fish. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt round out a well-balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next dinner party? Serve the Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe over a bed of sesame noodles or nestled atop a fragrant bowl of miso soup with garnished scallions. Alternatively, use the salmon as the star component in an Asian-inspired grain bowl layered with avocado slices, pickled ginger, and radish for a colorful, crowd-pleasing presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to let the salmon cool completely before sealing it to preserve its texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen salmon is best eaten within 1 month for optimal taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out your salmon, warm it gently in a low oven (around 275°F) for 10-15 minutes, or in a microwave at medium power in short bursts, covering to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep that tender flakiness intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before baking. Thawing helps the glaze penetrate evenly and ensures even cooking.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of mustard powder mixed with water, but Dijon gives the best mild tang and creaminess to contrast the sweetness of the honey.
Can I bake the salmon skinless?
Absolutely. Skin-on helps keep the fish moist and intact during baking, but if you prefer skinless, just watch carefully as they may cook a bit faster and be more delicate when handling.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze, you can simmer the mixture gently on the stovetop for a few minutes before applying, reducing it until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is this recipe healthy?
This recipe is packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and uses simple ingredients without added sugars or preservatives. Using low sodium soy sauce also helps keep salt in check, making it a nutritious and delicious choice.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe is truly a shining example of how putting a few simple ingredients together with care can create something spectacular. Its effortless prep, satisfying flavors, and elegant presentation mean you’ll want to make it over and over. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation—for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
Print
Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Baked Salmon with Honey Soy Glaze is a delicious and healthy dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets baked to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze made from honey, low sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and olive oil. This recipe is simple to prepare, cooks quickly in the oven, and yields flavorful salmon perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets, 6 ounces each, skin on
Honey Soy Glaze
- 1 ½ tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature while you prepare the glaze and preheat the oven. This helps the salmon cook evenly.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined to create a flavorful glaze.
- Glaze the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Reserve half of the glaze in a clean bowl. Brush or spoon the remaining half evenly over the salmon fillets to coat them well.
- Bake the salmon: Bake the salmon for 12 minutes. Then, brush the fillets with the remaining glaze and continue baking for another 2 to 8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets and preferred doneness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. For safety, the internal temperature should reach 145°F, though some prefer 125-130°F followed by a 3-minute rest.
Notes
- Letting the salmon come to room temperature before cooking helps ensure even cooking throughout.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control the salt content in the glaze.
- Cooking times may vary depending on fillet thickness—adjust accordingly and watch for flakiness.
- For a more caramelized glaze, you can broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
