Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon

Perfectly grilled salmon with a caramelized honey glaze, this dish is sweet, smoky, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard creates a deliciously sticky glaze that enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Quick to prepare and ideal for summer grilling, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory – The honey glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Healthy & Nutritious – A protein-rich dish loaded with omega-3s.
• Perfect for Grilling – The smoky grill flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy marinade.
• Versatile – Serve with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade – In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Marinate the Salmon – Brush salmon fillets with olive oil, then pour half of the glaze over them. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill – Heat the grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Salmon – Place fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip and brush with the remaining glaze. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily.
5. Garnish & Serve – Remove from the grill, sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve hot with extra glaze on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Citrus Infused – Swap lemon juice for orange juice for a slightly sweeter taste.
• Ginger Twist – Mix in 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Oven-Baked Option – Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes instead of grilling.
• Soy-Free Alternative – Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
• Freezing – Freeze uncooked, marinated salmon for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw the salmon completely before marinating to ensure even cooking.

How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates well and avoid flipping the salmon too early. Using a fish spatula can also help.

What side dishes pair well with honey glazed salmon?

Rice, roasted vegetables, quinoa, grilled asparagus, or a fresh summer salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! You can bake it in the oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or cook it in a skillet over medium heat for about 8 minutes.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This glaze works well with trout, cod, or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! The marinade can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Should I remove the salmon skin before grilling?

No, leaving the skin on helps keep the salmon moist and prevents it from falling apart on the grill.

Can I double the glaze for extra sauce?

Absolutely! Just set some aside before marinating to drizzle over the cooked salmon.

What’s the best way to get a caramelized crust on the salmon?

Baste the salmon with extra glaze during grilling and let it slightly char for a rich, caramelized finish.

Conclusion

This Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon is the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. With its rich caramelized glaze and flaky texture, it’s an easy yet elegant dish that’s great for both casual BBQs and special occasions. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal in under 30 minutes!