Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon (Lean Version)

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

• Quick enough for busy weeknights, pretty enough for company or holidays.

• Made with simple pantry staples like honey, garlic, lemon, and low-sodium soy sauce.

• Leaner than traditional versions with minimal oil and no heavy butter or cream.

• Naturally family-friendly thanks to the sweet, savory glaze that even picky eaters enjoy.

• Pairs beautifully with lean sides like cauliflower mash, wild rice, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Salmon: Use 4 similar-sized fillets so they cook evenly. Trout or steelhead also work with this recipe.

• Honey: Creates the best sticky glaze. Pure maple syrup can be used if you prefer.

• Low-sodium soy sauce: Keeps the salt in check. Coconut aminos or tamari are good substitutes.

• Oil: Olive oil or avocado oil both support a lean, heart-healthy approach.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the glaze a bold flavor—fresh is best here.

• Heat level: Crushed red pepper flakes are optional and easy to adjust for your family’s spice tolerance.

Instructions

Season the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with pink salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

b. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), red pepper flakes, and 1 tbsp water. The mixture should be pourable; add a little more water if needed.

c. Sear the salmon: Heat olive or avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon in the pan and cook 3–4 minutes, until the edges start to turn opaque and the bottom has a light sear.

d. Flip and add the glaze: Flip the salmon carefully. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic glaze over and around the fillets.

e. Simmer and thicken: Cook another 3–4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the top as it simmers. The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the sauce should look slightly thick and glossy. If it becomes too thick, stir in an extra tablespoon of water to loosen.

f. Finish & serve: Turn off the heat. Squeeze a little fresh lemon over the salmon, sprinkle with parsley or green onion, and serve with your favorite lean sides.

Serving Size: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories

≈ 340 calories per fillet (lean holiday main dish)

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay (creamy balance to honey)

• Pinot Grigio (light + perfect for lean seafood)

Tips, Variations & Storage

• Tip: Pat the salmon very dry before seasoning so it sears instead of steaming.

• Variation: Add a pinch of orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the glaze for a citrus twist.

• Make it spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen salmon? Yes. Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator, then pat it dry before seasoning and cooking so it can sear properly.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can cook the salmon and glaze earlier in the day, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth and spoon the warmed glaze over the top before serving.