High Protein Honey Garlic Salmon

High Protein Honey Garlic Salmon

“Sweet, savory & incredibly protein-packed – dinner perfection!”

5 min Prep
12 min Cook
17 min Total
4 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt to taste
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides. Let sit at room temperature.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  3. Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side up and sear 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 1 more minute.
  4. Add the sauce: Add butter to the pan. Pour honey garlic sauce over salmon. Let bubble and cook 2-3 minutes, spooning sauce over the fish.
  5. Baste and finish: Continue basting until coated and slightly thickened. Internal temp should reach 145°F.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately with lemon slices!

Pro Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Salmon

  • Dry the salmon well – moisture prevents proper searing
  • Don’t move the fish while searing – let it develop a golden crust
  • Watch the sauce closely – honey burns quickly on high heat
  • Use a thermometer – salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F
  • Let sauce cool slightly before pouring to prevent splattering

Delicious Variations

  • Spicy Honey Garlic: Add extra red pepper flakes and sriracha
  • Ginger Version: Add 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger to the sauce
  • Teriyaki Style: Use more soy sauce and add rice vinegar
  • Citrus Boost: Add orange zest and use orange juice instead of lemon
  • Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce honey

Perfect Pairings

Sides: Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or with a side of greens.

Meal Prep: Store salmon in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Wine Pairing: Pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Delicious high-protein meals for every day