Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: This recipe offers a delightful harmony of flavors, combining tender salmon fillets with a luscious honey-lime garlic butter sauce.

Each fillet is seasoned simply with salt and pepper, then generously coated with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, sweet honey, tangy lime juice, and zest. Baked to perfection, the salmon emerges flaky and infused with the aromatic essence of garlic and citrus.

Garnished with fresh parsley for brightness, and served with lime wedges for an added zest, this dish promises a savory-sweet indulgence that is both elegant and easy to prepare. Ideal for any occasion, it’s a surefire way to elevate your seafood dining experience at home.

Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon lime juice

Zest of 1 lime

2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, honey, lime juice, and lime zest to make the sauce.

Drizzle the honey lime garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For a more golden top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes:

Salmon Fillets: Use fresh or thawed salmon fillets, approximately 6 ounces each. Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure even cooking.

Seasoning: Season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the fish.

Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Sauce: The sauce is a key component, combining melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, honey, lime juice, and lime zest. Adjust the sweetness of the honey and tanginess of the lime juice according to your preference.

Even Distribution: Ensure the honey lime garlic butter sauce is evenly drizzled over each salmon fillet to coat them well. This ensures each bite is infused with the delicious flavors.

Baking Temperature and Time: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the salmon for 15-18 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets. If you prefer a golden crust, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.

Garnish: Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor. Sprinkle it over the baked salmon immediately after removing from the oven.

Serving: Serve the Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon immediately with lime wedges on the side. The lime wedges can be squeezed over the salmon before eating to add a burst of citrus freshness.

Cleanup Tip: Line the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper before placing the salmon on it. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup much easier.

Variations: You can customize this recipe by adding additional herbs like dill or thyme to the sauce, or incorporating a touch of spice with red pepper flakes.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the salmon’s texture.

Nutrition Information:

One serving is one 6-ounce salmon fillet

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even baking.

What type of honey works best for the sauce?

Any type of liquid honey will work well in the honey-lime garlic butter sauce.

Choose one with a flavor profile you enjoy.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

It should be opaque and moist but not raw in the center.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the honey-lime garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator.

Warm it slightly before drizzling over the salmon fillets.

What should I serve with this baked salmon?

This salmon pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

The lime wedges can be squeezed over the salmon and sides for added zest.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried parsley for fresh parsley.

Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh parsley called for in the recipe.

How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the baking sheet?

Use foil or parchment paper to line the baking sheet before placing the salmon fillets on it.

This also makes cleanup easier.

Is there a substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can use olive oil or melted coconut oil as a substitute for butter if you prefer.

This will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Can I use lime zest and lime juice from bottled sources?

Fresh lime zest and juice are recommended for the best flavor.

Bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferable for optimal taste.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.