Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Servings: 4 Total Time: 18 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

When I think of a dish as vibrant and luscious as soy glazed salmon, my mind races ahead to the several delightful pairings that elevate the dining experience. Imagine a mound of fluffy jasmine rice soaking up the flavorful glaze.

 Or picture perfectly roasted asparagus deftly balancing the salmon’s richness. And let’s not forget about a fresh cucumber salad for that refreshing crunch, or even mashed sweet potatoes to add a hint of sweetness. Each option complements the dish beautifully, turning a simple meal into something special.

Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes

We live in a busy world. Often, finding time to whip up a nutritious dinner can feel like an uphill battle. Enter soy glazed salmon. This 20-minute dish is not only quick but also bursts with flavor. 

The marriage of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors transforms an ordinary salmon fillet into a culinary delight. I’ve found that in just under half an hour, you can serve a meal that feels extravagant. Let’s dive deeper into this dish and uncover why it deserves a prime spot on your dinner table.

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What is Soy Glazed Salmon?

Soy glazed salmon is a quick preparation that utilizes a rich soy sauce-based glaze. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a delightful balance between sweetness and umami, transforming the salmon into a standout meal. The best part? It’s as effortless as it sounds. This dish can shine on a weeknight or impress during a special gathering—all in a remarkable 20 minutes.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

1. Speed of Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a fabulous meal ready to serve. This works wonders for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without sacrificing your time.

2. Flavor Explosion: The unique sweet and salty glaze brings a burst of flavor. The honey caramelizes beautifully, giving the salmon a deliciously sticky exterior that sings harmony with garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat from sriracha.

3. Nutritional Benefits: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. It’s also an excellent source of protein. With the addition of ginger and garlic, you’re adding even more health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Versatility: This recipe is incredibly flexible. While it stands out on its own, you can easily adapt it with different side dishes or tweaks to the glaze for personal taste preferences. Whether you want it spicier or sweeter, you control the flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Soy Glazed Salmon in 20 Minutes

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless based on preference)
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Sweet & Spicy Garlic Glaze:

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or preferred chili sauce
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ cup pure honey

How To Make Soy Glazed Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful colors.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Glaze

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, and water. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy. The aroma will have you dreaming about what’s to come!

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Don’t rush this part; a good sear creates texture.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

When the salmon is cooked halfway through, carefully flip the fillets with a spatula. Pour the glaze over the salmon, ensuring every bit is coated generously. Allow it to simmer for another 4-5 minutes, letting the salmon soak in the flavors.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

When the salmon is cooked through but still moist, remove it from the pan. Toss in the butter and allow it to melt in the remaining glaze. This will enrich the sauce even more. Drizzle this over the salmon for an indulgent finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your gorgeous salmon fillets and pour any leftover glaze over them. Garnish with additional lemon juice or scallions if desired. Wow, what a feast!

How to make Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes

Tips for Perfect Soy Glazed Salmon

  • Quality Matters: Choose high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Fresh, wild-caught salmon usually wins hands down.
  • Be Cautious with the Heat: Watch your cooking time. Overcooking salmon can lead to dryness. It should be opaque but still moist in the center.
  • Marinate if You Can: For deeper flavor, try marinating the salmon in the glaze for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference.
  • Resting Time: Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.

Nutrition Information

Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes Recipe

How to Store The Leftovers

Leftover soy glazed salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat. You want to warm it gently, so it doesn’t become dry. Add a splash of water or more glaze to help keep it moist.

Recommended Side Dishes for Soy Glazed Salmon

  1. Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green backdrop to the dish. Broccoli’s slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the glaze.
  2. Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, slightly sticky rice soaks up excess glaze beautifully. You’ll want this on your plate!
  3. Cucumber Salad: Crisp, refreshing, and cool. A perfect counterpoint to the rich salmon with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
  4. Quinoa: High in protein and fluffy. A great option if you want a grain that packs a nutritional punch.

Ingredient Substitutes for Soy Glazed Salmon

  • Salmon: If salmon isn’t available, consider using trout or barbecued chicken for an equally flavorful alternative.
  • Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can serve as substitutes for honey. Each will bring their own sweetness.
  • Sriracha: Any chili sauce can work in this dish. For a milder option, try a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes instead.
  • Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent alternative to traditional soy sauce.

Conclusion

Soy glazed salmon in 20 minutes is a game changer for those jam-packed days. The ease of preparation and tantalizing flavors make it an instant favorite on any dinner table. With options for side dishes and substitutions, you can adapt this dish to fit any preference or dietary need. Grab your apron and get ready to impress. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 8 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 18 mins
Servings: 4 Calories: 210
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

We live in a busy world. Often, finding time to whip up a nutritious dinner can feel like an uphill battle. Enter soy glazed salmon. This 20-minute dish is not only quick but also bursts with flavor. 

The marriage of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors transforms an ordinary salmon fillet into a culinary delight. I've found that in just under half an hour, you can serve a meal that feels extravagant. Let's dive deeper into this dish and uncover why it deserves a prime spot on your dinner table.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful colors.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Glaze

  1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, and water. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Mix until it's smooth and creamy. The aroma will have you dreaming about what's to come!

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

  1. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Don’t rush this part; a good sear creates texture.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

  1. When the salmon is cooked halfway through, carefully flip the fillets with a spatula. Pour the glaze over the salmon, ensuring every bit is coated generously. Allow it to simmer for another 4-5 minutes, letting the salmon soak in the flavors.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

  1. When the salmon is cooked through but still moist, remove it from the pan. Toss in the butter and allow it to melt in the remaining glaze. This will enrich the sauce even more. Drizzle this over the salmon for an indulgent finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Plate your gorgeous salmon fillets and pour any leftover glaze over them. Garnish with additional lemon juice or scallions if desired. Wow, what a feast!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 210kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.9g11%
Saturated Fat 3.8g19%
Cholesterol 12mg4%
Sodium 758mg32%
Total Carbohydrate 39g13%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 36g
Protein 2g4%

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

Note

  • Quality Matters: Choose high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Fresh, wild-caught salmon usually wins hands down.
  • Be Cautious with the Heat: Watch your cooking time. Overcooking salmon can lead to dryness. It should be opaque but still moist in the center.
  • Marinate if You Can: For deeper flavor, try marinating the salmon in the glaze for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference.

Resting Time: Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.

Keywords: Soy Glazed Salmon 20 minutes
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Can I use frozen salmon?

 Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Frozen salmon can take longer to cook.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

 Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and simply reheat before serving.

Can I make this recipe without garlic?

 You can skip garlic if necessary, but it adds a significant depth of flavor. For alternatives, try shallots.

What should I do if I don't have rice vinegar?

 You can use apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice as a substitute.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

 Look for the salmon to turn opaque, and it should flake easily with a fork. A food thermometer should read 145°F internally for perfectly cooked salmon.

Iris Miller, Author and Registered Dietitian
Iris Miller Registered Dietitian & Food Enthusiasts

Iris Miller is a registered dietitian and the creator of Friendsgiving Food Ideas, a blog dedicated to festive, accessible recipes that bring people together. Based in Colorado, Iris combines her passion for nutrition and love of celebrations to create crowd-pleasing dishes for holidays and special occasions. Her goal is to make hosting easy, fun, and inclusive for all dietary needs.

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