Honey Lime Salmon Recipe

Honey Lime Salmon Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Honey Lime Glazed Salmon

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 pound salmon filets, skinless

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine honey, lime juice, lime zest, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow glass baking dish and coat them evenly with the honey-lime mixture.
  4. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145F (63C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
  5. Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories 569
Total Fat 28g
Saturated Fat 5g
Cholesterol 143mg
Sodium 140mg
Total Carbohydrate 28g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Sugars 26g
Protein 50g
Vitamin C 17mg
Calcium 42mg
Iron 1mg
Potassium 915mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Honey Lime Salmon

Honey Lime Salmon is a modern twist on classic baked salmon recipes, blending sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors. While the exact origin of this dish is hard to trace, it likely emerged in North America in the late 20th century, when home cooks and chefs began experimenting with citrus and honey glazes for seafood. The combination of honey and lime offers a balance of sweetness and acidity that enhances the natural richness of salmon, making it a favorite for quick weeknight dinners as well as elegant entertaining.

Regional Characteristics

This recipe is most commonly associated with American cuisine, particularly the West Coast, where fresh salmon is abundant. In regions like the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, salmon is a staple ingredient, and chefs often experiment with local ingredients such as honey from regional beekeepers and fresh citrus from California. The dishs preparation can vary slightly depending on regional preferences: in the southern United States, it might include a touch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, while in northern states, it may be paired with maple syrup instead of honey.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While there are many glazed salmon recipes, Honey Lime Salmon stands out due to its simplicity and bright, citrus-forward flavor. Unlike teriyaki salmon, which relies on soy sauce and ginger, or maple-glazed salmon, which emphasizes deep sweetness, honey lime offers a fresher, lighter taste. The inclusion of lime zest and juice adds a fragrant citrus note that complements the fish without overpowering it, while a hint of red pepper flakes provides subtle warmth.

Where Its Commonly Served

Honey Lime Salmon is versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. It appears on casual dinner tables at home, often paired with steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa. In restaurants, it may be found in seafood bistros or American-style eateries, frequently presented over a bed of aromatic rice or alongside roasted seasonal vegetables. Its appealing balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a popular choice for both weekday meals and special occasions.

Interesting Facts

  • Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only flavorful but also heart-healthy.
  • The combination of honey and citrus is a classic technique in many culinary traditions, from Southeast Asia to Mediterranean cuisine, highlighting the universal appeal of sweet-and-sour flavors.
  • Lime zest contains essential oils that enhance the aroma and depth of the dish, a small step that elevates the overall taste.
  • Red pepper flakes are often added in minimal amounts to give a subtle kick, demonstrating how a little spice can balance sweetness and acidity.
  • This dish can be easily adapted for grilling or pan-searing, making it suitable for outdoor barbecues as well as indoor baking.

FAQ about Honey Lime Salmon Recipe

Leftover Honey Lime Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. To prevent the fish from drying out during reheating, cover it with a damp paper towel or foil.

Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. However, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture. Thaw salmon in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

This Honey Lime Salmon pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it with quinoa or couscous for a more filling meal.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more honey. For a tangier sauce, increase the amount of lime juice or zest.

While it's best to serve the salmon fresh, you can prepare the honey-lime sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to cook, simply coat the salmon with the sauce and bake as instructed.

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. These alternatives will still provide a sweet base for the sauce, but the flavor will differ slightly.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and an instant-read thermometer inserted near the center reads 145°F (63°C). If you don't have a thermometer, checking for flakiness is a good indicator.

To help the sauce stay on the salmon, you can spoon some of the sauce over the fish halfway through cooking. Alternatively, serve the salmon with extra sauce poured on top after baking for added flavor.

Comments

Mary Ellen Acosta

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I prepared it exactly as written. Both my husband and I liked it. Next time I may add a little more honey after cooking, as the sauce mostly ran off the salmon and the lime was the stronger of the two flavors. Overall, very tasty and I will make it again.

Kevin Garcia

07/29/2024 12:43:38 AM

Quick, simple, and really good.

livewire

07/13/2024 01:15:29 AM

Easiest recipe yet; and almost no utensils to clean up in the kitchen. Served with fresh cherries. Well received.