Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a flavorful and elegant dish that comes together quickly with minimal effort. The combination of sweet honey, zesty lime, rich butter, and fragrant garlic creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe delivers a balance of bright and savory flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletshoneyfresh limes (juice and zest)unsalted buttergarlic clovesolive oilsalt and black pepperfresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in honey, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush or spoon the honey lime garlic butter generously over each fillet.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

For extra caramelization, broil on high for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15-18 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use orange juice instead of lime for a sweeter twist.

Swap butter with ghee or dairy-free margarine if preferred.

Top with toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions.

Serve over rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave until warmed through.Do not freeze once cooked, as texture may change—freeze raw fillets with glaze if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

What if I don’t have fresh limes?

Bottled lime juice works, but fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.

Can I grill instead of bake?

Absolutely—grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with the glaze.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

No, baking with the skin helps retain moisture. Remove after cooking if preferred.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad pair beautifully.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the glaze in advance, but bake the salmon fresh for best texture.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use salmon steaks?

Yes, adjust the baking time slightly depending on thickness.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes—mild, sweet, and flavorful, it’s appealing to most palates.

Conclusion

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant main course. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that will have everyone reaching for seconds.