This Spicy Hot Honey Salmon is a tasty delight! The sweet honey pairs perfectly with spicy flavors, making each bite exciting and full of flavor.
I love how quick it is to make—just bake or grill the salmon, drizzle with hot honey, and enjoy! Perfect for any night when you want something special without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish, but you can substitute with trout or even chicken if you prefer. Frozen salmon works well; just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking!
Honey: Any variety of honey adds sweetness. For a healthier option, try agave nectar or maple syrup. If you want to reduce sweetness, use less honey and balance with extra vinegar.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Both add acidity, enhancing the dish. Lemon juice is great if you want a fresher taste. White vinegar can replace apple cider vinegar, but note it has a sharper flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon = 1 clove). Avoid using pre-minced garlic for this dish as it lacks flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the spice level to your liking. Substitute with cayenne pepper for more heat, or smoked paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Salmon?
Searing salmon gives it a beautiful crust and enhances flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pan or grill is hot enough before adding the salmon—this prevents sticking.
- Use a little oil to coat the pan but don’t overload it, just enough to prevent sticking and help crisp the skin.
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning; moisture makes it harder to get that golden crust.
- Let the salmon sit undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping—it’ll release easier.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this easy and flavorful Spicy Hot Honey Salmon!
How to Make Spicy Hot Honey Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) for garnish
- Optional: mixed greens or arugula for serving
- Optional: diced cucumber or fresh vegetables for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes total to have this flavorful dish ready to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re grilling, get the grill ready at medium-high heat. While preheating, take the salmon fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick and creates a beautiful crust when cooking.
2. Season the Salmon:
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides of each salmon fillet, making sure they are evenly coated. This adds a wonderful flavor base for the fish.
3. Make the Spice Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. This spicy hot honey glaze will be the star of your dish!
4. Sear the Salmon:
Using an oven-safe skillet or grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat. If needed, add a small splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once the pan is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (or one side if skinless) and let them sear for about 3-4 minutes until you see a golden crust form.
5. Glaze and Cook:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets over and generously brush them with the spicy hot honey glaze. If you’re baking, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. If grilling, keep cooking for about another 5 minutes.
6. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the heat and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. This adds extra flavor and moisture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and an additional sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicier. For serving, lay the salmon on a bed of mixed greens or arugula. Add diced cucumber or your favorite fresh vegetables on the side. Drizzle the spicy hot honey sauce over everything for a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy your sweet, spicy, and savory Spicy Hot Honey Salmon!
FAQ for Spicy Hot Honey Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, agave nectar or maple syrup work well, offering similar sweetness. For a sugar-free option, consider using sugar-free syrups designed for cooking, adjusting the amount to your taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Dish?
Yes! You can easily adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the glaze. If you prefer milder flavors, start with half the specified amount and taste before adding more.
