Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a culinary delight that perfectly combines the rich, savory flavor of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of honey and lime. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat with its glistening glaze. The contrasting aromas of garlic and thyme elevate the dish, making it a sensory experience that draws everyone to the dinner table. This recipe is truly worth making, as its straightforward preparation allows for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. With easy prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for gatherings with family or friends. The minimal ingredients make it approachable, allowing even novice cooks to create a stunning dish. In just 20 minutes, you can conjure up a healthy meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe is manageable and yields fantastic results, ensuring that you have a fantastic dinner to savor.

Ingredients for Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

1. 4 salmon fillets
2. 2 tbsp honey
3. 2 tbsp lime juice
4. 3 tbsp melted butter
5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 tsp dried thyme
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. Lime wedges for garnish
9. Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather these ingredients and prepare to be delighted by the scrumptious combination of flavors they will create in this dazzling dish.

Step-by-Step Directions for Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting the salmon.

2. Make the glaze: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture.

3. Prepare the salmon: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the salmon fillets skin-side down. This step prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.

4. Add the glaze: Generously pour the honey lime garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.

5. Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven. Garnish with lime wedges and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.

Tips & Tricks

To take your Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon to the next level, consider these chef secrets and optional extras. For a little added texture, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving. If you love heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the glaze for some zing. If you’re seeking a bit of earthy warmth, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mixture. Additionally, using individual ramekins for serving could make for an elegant dinner presentation.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing contrast, serve the salmon alongside a light cucumber and avocado salad. Fluffy quinoa or wild rice can absorb the tasty juices, making them a perfect companion. Roasted seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli would also bring a lovely color and provide a well-rounded meal. For those desiring a carbohydrate boost, a side of garlic mashed potatoes would beautifully complement the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a nutritious choice packed with high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Typically, a serving contains around 350 calories, offering a healthy balance of fats and protein. The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, while lime juice aids in digestion and adds antioxidants. This dish is not just indulgent but also nourishing, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals.

Storing Tips & Variations for Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

When it comes to storing Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked salmon for up to two months. When reheating, aim to do so in the oven or a skillet on low heat to preserve its juicy texture. If you’re looking for variations, try substituting the salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia, or even chicken breast for a different take on the recipe. A squeeze of fresh orange juice instead of lime may also create a delightful citrus twist.

Conclusion for Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

There’s no time like the present to indulge in Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon. Its stunning appearance and mouthwatering taste make it a must-try recipe for any seafood lover. Don’t wait too long; gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and experience the sensational flavors and aromas that this dish has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme can enhance the flavor even more. Use about three times as much fresh thyme compared to dried.

2. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and it flakes easily with a fork.

3. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup can serve as a great substitute for honey, offering a different note of sweetness.

4. What sides pair well with this dish?
Some great side options include steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

5. How do I prevent my salmon from drying out?
Keeping an eye on cooking time is key. Salmon cooks quickly, so check it after 12 minutes. You can also brush it with more marinade to keep it moist while baking.

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

A delightful combination of rich salmon fillets glazed with honey, lime, and garlic, baked to perfection for a satisfying and visually appealing meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the salmon

• 4 pieces salmon fillets Skin-side down on the baking sheet
• 2 tbsp honey For sweetness
• 2 tbsp lime juice For tanginess
• 3 tbsp melted butter Adds richness
• 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
• 1 tsp dried thyme For aromatic flavor
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
• as needed Lime wedges For garnish
• as needed Fresh parsley For garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for roasting the salmon.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk together until smooth.
3. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the salmon fillets skin-side down.

Cooking

1. Generously pour the honey lime garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with lime wedges and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For added texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add heat, or smoked paprika for earthy warmth. Consider using individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.