Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the richness of butter with the brightness of lime and the sweetness of honey. Infused with garlic and baked to flaky perfection, this salmon is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all in one dish. The honey-lime glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, enhancing the natural richness of the salmon. It’s quick to prepare, nutrient-rich, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes—from roasted vegetables to rice or salad. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this salmon dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner menu.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• Unsalted butter

• Garlic (minced)

• Honey

• Fresh lime juice

• Lime zest

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or cilantro, lime slices

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in the honey, lime juice, and lime zest. Remove from heat once well combined.

4. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Pour the honey lime garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon.

6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

7. Optional: Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end for a lightly caramelized glaze.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and fresh lime slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter sauce for heat.

• Citrus Blend: Mix lemon or orange juice with the lime for a more complex citrus flavor.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the baking dish for an herbal note.

• Foil Packet Style: Wrap individual fillets in foil with the sauce for easy cleanup and extra moisture.

• Grilled Option: Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smokier flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the salmon in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes. Alternatively, reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.

Can I substitute lemon for lime?

Absolutely. Lemon will provide a slightly different citrus flavor but works well with honey and garlic.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the honey lime garlic butter sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter substitute to make the dish dairy-free while maintaining flavor.

What sides pair best with this salmon?

Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad all complement this dish nicely.

Can I make this with a whole side of salmon?

Yes, adjust the cooking time accordingly (about 20–25 minutes for a whole side, depending on thickness).

Should I remove the skin from the salmon?

It’s up to you. The skin helps retain moisture during baking, but it can be removed before or after cooking.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer a bit longer before pouring it over the salmon, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Conclusion

Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a beautifully balanced dish that combines fresh, bold flavors with ease of preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this salmon is both nourishing and delicious. Whether served with simple sides or part of a larger spread, it delivers satisfying flavor and elegance with minimal effort.