Honey Lime Salmon Recipe

Name: Honey Lime Salmon
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 pound salmon filet, skin removed ((smaller or larger fish works as well)); 2 tablespoons honey; 1 lime, zested and juiced; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; salt & pepper

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Honey Lime Salmon is a flavorful and simple way to prepare salmon that comes together quick. This fast and healthy recipe is full of flavor and a great way to prepare salmon for any occasion.

Honey Lime Salmon on parchment lined baking sheet with limes next to it.

If you are looking to get a healthy and flavorful dinner entree on the table fast, then this honey lime salmon is the way to go! Plus, it’s great for meal prep and makes for delicious salmon tacos.

If you happen to have leftover salmon, be sure to use it in this quick and healthy Salmon Stuffed Avocado recipe! And for some delicious sides for this your salmon, try these Italian Roasted Potatoes, Italian Roasted Vegetables, or this Spinach Pasta Salad.

You’ll Love Honey Lime Salmon!

This recipe for Honey Lime Salmon is a great way to make baked salmon. It comes together fast and has a delicious and simple glaze that’s perfect for making a whole salmon.

What makes this salmon so special is the combination of sweet honey, zesty lime, and a little bit of spice from the cayenne pepper. I like to add a bit of garlic to the glaze to really bring out lots of flavor.

Salmon is one of the best options for quick weeknight dinner and features so many heart healthy benefits. It cooks quick and it so simple to make whether you are a beginner or pro in the kitchen.

I love that this salmon cooks fast and you can have it on the table in just 15 minutes. Plus, there is no need to marinade ahead of time. It’s great for a fast weeknight dinner and makes for perfect next day leftovers.

baked salmon on a white plate with a lime wedge, brown rice, and broccoli.

This is also a great less-mess recipe. Just line your baking pan with foil or parchment paper and there’s nothing to wash or clean afterwards.

So, if you are looking for a delicious a simple way to prepare salmon, be sure to give this dish a try. So full of flavor, you’re going to love this Honey Lime Salmon recipe!

Ingredients and Substitutions

ingredients needed to make recipe including garlic, cayenne pepper, and fish.

Salmon: You can use a whole salmon or individual pieces for this recipe. Here, I note that a 2-pound salmon is used, however, any size will work. If using individual salmon pieces, 4-6 filets should be sufficient.
Honey: Use your favorite brand of honey here. Agave nectar or maple syrup can be a good substitution.
Lime: You will need the zest and juice from one lime. Feel free to use more or less lime depending on your preferences.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a nice flavor to the salmon. You can use garlic powder instead as a substitution.
Cayenne: Just a ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper will add a bit of spice to the Honey Lime Salmon, without being too hot. Feel free to add more or omit it entirely if desired.
Salt & Pepper: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Make Honey Lime Salmon

This recipe for Honey Lime Salmon is super easy to make and bakes in just 15 minutes. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees and position your baking rack to the top third of the oven.

process shots showing how to make recipe including making the topping and brushing it on top of the fish before baking.

Step 1: make the glaze

In a bowl combine the honey, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Whisk to combine.

Step 2: place the salmon on parchment

Next, place the salmon on a lined baking sheet. You can use either foil or parchment paper for this. I recommend lining the pan before baking for easy clean up. Salt and pepper the salmon if desired.

Step 3: brush on the glaze

Use a pastry brush or spoon to drizzle the glaze over top of the salmon. Make sure the glaze is evenly spread overtop of the entire salmon.

Step 4: bake until flaky

Bake the salmon in a preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or just until the salmon starts to flake with a fork. Be careful not to over bake. Depending on your oven temp, it could take as little as 10 minutes for the salmon to be done, so be sure to pay attention.

Optional: to get a caramelized glaze on top of the salmon, broil the fish for about 2-3 minutes before it is done cooking.

honey lime salmon on a fork with a slice of lime next to it.

I love to serve this salmon with my Mexican Street Corn Salad or a this simple fluffy Ricotta Mashed Potatoes. Leftover salmon is great the next day flaked and added to salads, frittatas, and wraps.

Recipe Tips

Line Baking Sheet: be sure to line your baking sheet with parchment or foil for baking for easy clean up.
Salmon: this recipe calls for a 2 pound salmon, but bigger or smaller salmon work fine. You can also use individual salmon filets.
Honey: use your favorite honey for this recipe. You could also use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.
Baking Time: because oven temperatures and the thickness of the salmon can vary, it’s best to start testing the salmon for doneness at around 10-12 minutes of cooking. You will know it is done when it flakes easily with a fork or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees.
Leftovers: store leftover Honey Lime Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature to bake salmon?

The temperature to bake salmon varies depending on the recipe and the size of the salmon. As a general rule, the oven should be preheated to 400 degrees for most salmon recipes. It’s important to note that the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145 degrees.

How to store leftover baked salmon?

To store leftover baked salmon, first allow the salmon to cool down to room temperature. Use a clean, airtight container to store the salmon and cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate leftover baked salmon within 2 hours of cooking it. Store the salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What a quick glaze for baked salmon?

Make a quick Honey Lime Salmon by whisking together honey, lime zest and juice, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Spread the glaze over the salmon and bake as usual.

Honey Lime Salmon on a white plate with broccoli and brown rice.

More Salmon Recipes!

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