Spicy Honey Baked Salmon

This spicy honey baked salmon delivers a perfect blend of sweet and heat, all wrapped up and roasted in foil for quick prep and minimal cleanup. It is my go-to solution for a flavorful weeknight dinner when time is tight but flavor matters.

I first made this on a night when my fridge was nearly empty except for salmon and pantry must haves. Now I keep honey and Dijon mustard on hand just for this recipe because my family asks for it on repeat.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet: Choose wild caught if possible for deep flavor bright color and firmer texture
• Salt and ground black pepper: A simple base that enhances the natural richness of salmon
• Honey: Infuses sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze during baking Look for local or raw honey when possible
• Whole grain Dijon mustard: Adds tang and a pop of texture The seeds give extra bite and I love the flavor of old style mustards
• Asian chili garlic sauce or Tabasco: Delivers complex spice without overwhelming You can adjust to your heat preference
• Apple cider vinegar: Balances the honey with its gentle tanginess Choose a version with the mother for extra health benefits
• Sesame oil: Brings nutty warmth and ties the glaze together Toasted sesame oil is ideal for its bold flavor
• Fresh chopped parsley: Lively finish Use fresh herbs for an aromatic touch

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Salmon:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees F Or two hundred and seven degrees C for an even roast. Rinse the salmon under cold water then pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels This helps the seasoning and glaze stick to the flesh. Place the salmon on a large piece of aluminum foil skin side down for easy wrapping

Season the Salmon:

Sprinkle salt and ground black pepper all over the salmon Rub gently to ensure even coverage The seasoning forms a foundation layer so do not skip this

Mix the Spicy Honey Glaze:

In a medium bowl combine your honey Dijon mustard chili garlic sauce apple cider vinegar and sesame oil Stir until the mixture is glossy and smooth Your kitchen will start to smell amazing

Coat the Salmon:

Pour the spicy honey mixture right over the salmon Use the back of a spoon to spread it out generously and evenly You want every bite sauced

Wrap and Bake:

Fold the foil up and over the salmon then seal the edges tightly This steams the fish inside making it extra moist Bake in the preheated oven for fifteen to twenty minutes depending on your fillet thickness For a one inch thick fillet start checking at fifteen minutes The fish should flake easily with a fork and look opaque

Garnish and Serve:

Once done carefully unwrap the foil to release the steam Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately You can spoon extra sauce from the pan over each serving

Save

My favorite part is the crispy edges you get from broiling for an extra minute or two after baking The scent of toasty honey and sesame oil reminds me of cooking for friends during an impromptu dinner When my niece visited last summer this was her first time loving salmon

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For best texture reheat gently covered with foil to keep in the moisture You can also enjoy leftovers chilled flaked over salads for a protein packed lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have whole grain Dijon any Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard works well For more heat swap the chili garlic sauce with Sriracha For a citrusy note try lime or lemon juice instead of vinegar

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed jasmine rice or roasted sweet potatoes for a filling meal A side of lightly sautéed greens brings added color and nutrition For special dinners serve atop a bed of wilted spinach or with toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top

Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute regular Dijon for whole grain mustard?

Yes, regular Dijon mustard works well if whole grain is unavailable. The flavor remains tangy and robust, though the texture will be smoother.

→ What can I use instead of Asian chili garlic sauce?

Tabasco sauce or another favorite hot sauce is a fine alternative, adjusting the amount to suit your desired heat level.

→ How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Baking times may vary by thickness.

→ Is it necessary to use foil for baking?

Foil helps retain moisture and makes for easy cleanup, but parchment paper may also be used as an alternative.

→ What sides pair well with spicy honey salmon?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad complement the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

The honey-mustard glaze can be mixed in advance and stored covered in the fridge for up to two days for added convenience.