Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon 🐟

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as delicious as it is effortless, this Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is about to become your new go-to. With its tender, flaky salmon infused with a perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy lime, and garlicky butter, this dish feels both gourmet and comforting. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or a special dinner with loved ones.

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Why You’ll Love This Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of honey, tanginess of lime, and savory garlic butter create an irresistible glaze.
Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make this recipe perfect for busy nights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with omega-3s, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Versatile: Great as the centerpiece for a family dinner or served with simple sides for a light meal.

Ingredients for Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

1 ½ lbs. salmon fillet
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 limes (juice of 1 lime + slices for garnish)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

Baking dish or sheet pan
Aluminum foil or parchment paper
Basting brush (optional)
Small bowl for mixing the glaze

How to Make Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place the salmon fillet in the prepared baking dish. Pat it dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).

Step 3: Make the Honey-Lime Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and the juice of 1 lime until smooth.

Step 4: Glaze the Salmon

Pour the honey-lime garlic butter mixture over the salmon, using a basting brush to ensure it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake the salmon for 15-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. For a slightly caramelized top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and squeeze a bit more lime juice over the top. Garnish with lime slices and fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve with Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini roasted with olive oil and garlic.
Rice or Quinoa: For a hearty, filling meal.
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweet and tangy salmon.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Salmon

Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make it dry.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey slightly or add a splash of soy sauce for balance.
Customize the Herbs: Swap cilantro for parsley, dill, or basil to suit your taste.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Freeze: While best fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Another Fish?

Yes! This glaze works wonderfully with trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of the fillet.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged ingredients like honey or butter to ensure no hidden additives.

Can I Cook This on the Grill?

Absolutely! Place the salmon on foil or a grill-safe tray and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, brushing with extra glaze as it cooks.

Wrapping It Up

This Honey-Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is the ultimate mix of simplicity and elegance. It’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a special meal for yourself. With its sweet, tangy, and garlicky glaze, this salmon dish is bound to become a household favorite.

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment or share your photos on Pinterest. Looking for more salmon recipes? Check out these:

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: ~320 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 20g

So grab your limes, drizzle that honey, and let’s bake up something truly unforgettable. 🐟✨