Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus

It’s funny how some dishes just become instant family favorites. This Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus recipe is one of those in our house. From the first time I made it, the combination of the sweet and savory glaze on perfectly cooked salmon, paired with tender-crisp asparagus, was a hit. Even my picky eater, who usually wrinkles his nose at anything green, devoured the asparagus! It’s become a regular weeknight meal because it’s quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Honestly, the minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff is what makes this recipe a winner in my book. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a Tuesday evening. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and easy, trust me, this Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is a must-try.

Ingredients for Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus

• Salmon Fillets: 4 (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off, ensure they are boneless and of good quality for the best flavor and texture.
• Fresh Asparagus: 1 pound, look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. Thicker stalks are preferable as they hold up better to roasting.
• Honey: ¼ cup, use a good quality honey, such as wildflower or clover, for a rich, natural sweetness that complements the salmon.
• Soy Sauce (Low Sodium): 3 tablespoons, low sodium is recommended to control the saltiness of the glaze. It adds umami and depth of flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons, provides a tangy counterpoint to the honey and soy sauce, also helping to emulsify the glaze.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, fresh garlic is crucial for adding a pungent and aromatic element to the glaze.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed, brightens the glaze and adds acidity, balancing the sweetness and richness.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits, used for both the glaze and for tossing the asparagus.
• Salt: To taste, kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for seasoning both the salmon and asparagus.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste, adds a subtle spice and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley or sesame seeds, for adding visual appeal and a final touch of flavor just before serving.

Instructions for Perfect Honey Glazed Salmon and Asparagus

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
2. Prepare the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold water. Snap off the tough woody ends of the asparagus spears. To do this, hold each spear near the base and bend it gently; it will naturally snap at the point where it becomes tender. Place the trimmed asparagus in a bowl.
3. Toss Asparagus with Olive Oil and Seasoning: Drizzle the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to ensure the asparagus is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the glaze is smooth and emulsified. This ensures a consistent flavor and texture.
5. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and allows the glaze to adhere better and the salmon to sear slightly while baking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) or skin-side up (if skin-off) on the other side of the baking sheet, leaving some space between them and the asparagus to ensure even cooking.
6. Brush Salmon with Olive Oil and Season: Brush the salmon fillets lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This provides a base layer of flavor before adding the glaze.
7. Generously Glaze the Salmon: Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the honey glaze all over the tops and sides of the salmon fillets. Ensure each fillet is well coated with the glaze for maximum flavor infusion and a beautiful caramelized finish. Reserve any leftover glaze for basting during cooking or serving.
8. Bake the Salmon and Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender-crisp. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and asparagus spears. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center. The asparagus should be bright green and slightly tender but still have a bit of bite.
9. Baste (Optional) and Broil (Optional for Extra Caramelization): For extra flavor and a more pronounced glaze, you can baste the salmon with any remaining glaze halfway through the cooking time. For a deeper caramelized and slightly crispy top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, especially if broiling.
10. Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the salmon and asparagus rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the salmon, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds, if desired, for added freshness and visual appeal.
11. Serve Immediately: Serve the Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus immediately while it’s hot and the glaze is still glistening. The flavors are best when enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Nutrition Facts for Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 Salmon Fillet (approx. 6oz) with ¼ of the Asparagus and Glaze. This recipe makes 4 servings.
• Calories: Approximately 400-450 calories per serving. Calories can vary slightly based on the size of the salmon fillet and the exact amount of honey used. This makes it a relatively light and healthy meal option.
• Protein: Around 35-40 grams of protein per serving. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and overall body function.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High in Omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is renowned for its rich content of EPA and DHA, beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Vitamin D: A good source of Vitamin D. Salmon naturally contains Vitamin D, crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
• Sodium: Moderate sodium content. While low sodium soy sauce is used, the dish does contain sodium. Individuals watching their sodium intake should be mindful.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brand ingredients.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes washing and trimming asparagus, preparing the honey glaze, and seasoning the salmon. The recipe is designed for quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes. Baking time is relatively short, ensuring a fast and efficient cooking process. The total time from prep to plate is under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Total Time: Approximately 27-30 minutes. From start to finish, this recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus

This Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is versatile and can be served in various ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Pairing:
  • Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The rice will soak up the delicious honey glaze and complement the salmon and asparagus perfectly.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the glazed salmon and roasted asparagus.
• Healthy & Low-Carb Options:
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative to rice, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice. It’s light, healthy, and absorbs the glaze beautifully.
  • Salad: A fresh garden salad or a vibrant Mediterranean salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
• Vegetable Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Extend the roasted vegetable theme by adding other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli alongside the asparagus.
  • Steamed Greens: Steamed green beans or spinach offer a simple and healthy side that complements the dish without overpowering it.
• Bread & Grains:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread, like sourdough or baguette, to soak up any extra honey glaze from the plate.
  • Pasta: Light pasta dishes like lemon butter pasta or orzo pasta salad can be served as a side for a more substantial meal.
• Elegant Presentation:
  • Plating: Arrange the honey glazed salmon fillet alongside a generous portion of roasted asparagus on a plate. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the salmon and asparagus for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds or red pepper flakes for color and added flavor.
• Sauce Enhancements:
  • Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who like an extra burst of citrus.
  • Yogurt Dill Sauce: A cool yogurt dill sauce can provide a refreshing and creamy contrast to the sweet glaze and rich salmon.

Additional Tips for the Best Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus

1. Choose High-Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Wild-caught salmon is often considered more flavorful and nutritious than farmed salmon. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and have a fresh, clean smell.
2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and can become dry if overcooked. Cook just until it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center. Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Adjust Glaze to Your Preference: Taste the honey glaze before applying it to the salmon. Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or tanginess to your liking. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or more lemon juice for extra acidity.
4. Marinate for Deeper Flavor (Optional): For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the salmon in a portion of the honey glaze for 15-30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the salmon fillets, resulting in a richer taste.
5. Roast Asparagus at the Right Temperature: Roasting asparagus at 400°F (200°C) ensures it cooks quickly and becomes tender-crisp without becoming mushy. Make sure to spread the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even roasting.
6. Trim Asparagus Correctly: Properly trimming the woody ends of the asparagus is essential for a pleasant texture. Snapping the asparagus spears naturally where they become tender is a foolproof method.
7. Use Parchment Paper or Foil: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil makes cleanup much easier and prevents the salmon and asparagus from sticking to the pan.
8. Experiment with Garnishes: Get creative with garnishes to enhance the flavor and presentation. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, chopped green onions provide a fresh bite, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives always brighten up the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly after thawing to remove excess moisture, which will help the glaze adhere better and prevent the salmon from becoming watery.

Q2: Can I make the honey glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The honey glaze can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before using if it has separated slightly. This can save you time during meal preparation.

Q3: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? Can I substitute it?
A: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or a grainy mustard. However, Dijon mustard has a unique tangy flavor that complements the glaze well, so it is recommended if possible. If using yellow mustard, you might want to add a touch more lemon juice for a similar tang.

Q4: How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
A: The salmon is cooked perfectly when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist and tender.

Q5: Can I grill the salmon and asparagus instead of baking?
A: Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the asparagus in a grill basket or directly on the grates and grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp. Grill the glazed salmon for about 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness, flipping carefully halfway through, until cooked through.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables besides asparagus?
A: Definitely! You can add other vegetables that roast well, such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly, as some vegetables may take longer to cook than asparagus. Ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, Honey Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is great for meal prep. Cook the salmon and asparagus as directed and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave when ready to eat. The glaze keeps the salmon moist, making it ideal for leftovers.

Q8: Can I make this recipe gluten-free or soy-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, ensure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free (tamari is a good gluten-free soy sauce alternative). For a soy-free version, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which provides a similar umami flavor. Always double-check all ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Print