Honey Sesame Salmon

Craving a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors? Look no further than our mouthwatering Honey Sesame Salmon recipe! This delectable dish promises a tantalizing blend of succulent salmon, a luscious honey-infused marinade, and a sprinkle of aromatic fresh herbs.

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey where every bite unveils a harmonious medley of tastes. Imagine tender salmon filets, lovingly massaged with a rich marinade boasting hints of honey, sesame oil, and zesty lemon juice. This delightful combination promises to elevate the natural flavors of the salmon, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

At the heart of this recipe lies the star ingredient: fresh and succulent salmon filets. Their mild, buttery taste perfectly complements the honey sesame marinade, making it an ideal canvas for an explosion of flavors. And as we all know, salmon is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, making it a wholesome choice for your culinary adventures.

But it doesn't stop there! The Honey Sesame Salmon is an ode to simplicity and elegance, showcasing the magic of fresh basil and scallions. Their vibrant hues and invigorating aroma harmonize flawlessly with the other elements, adding an extra layer of freshness to the dish.

Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal, this Honey Sesame Salmon will never disappoint. And best of all, it's easy to prepare! The marinade requires just a few simple ingredients, yet the result is pure culinary enchantment.

So, are you ready to embark on a flavor adventure? Keep reading for the full recipe and unleash the magic of Honey Sesame Salmon in your own kitchen. Get ready to delight your taste buds and savor every incredible bite of this incredible dish!

Ingredient Checklist – Everything You’ll Need

• 1 3/4 lbs. of salmon filet
  • Note: Opt for wild salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • Tip: If using frozen salmon, thaw it thoroughly before marinating.
• Parchment paper
  • Tip: Parchment paper prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier.
• Fresh scallions
  • Substitution: You can use green onions or spring onions as a substitute for scallions.
• Fresh basil
  • Substitution: If fresh basil is not available, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won't be as intense.
  • Tip: Tear the basil leaves before adding to release more flavor.
• 1/2 tsp. salt
  • Tip: Adjust the salt according to your taste preferences.
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • Tip: Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • Tip: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how spicy you prefer the dish.
  • Substitute: A pinch of cayenne, or a sprinkling of gochugaru, or about a half-teaspoon of chili paste (such as sambal) are all potential substitutes.
• 3 cloves of garlic - crushed or pressed
  • Tip: Crushing the garlic helps release its juices, to more evenly spread the flavor.
• 1 tbs. brown sugar
  • Substitute: A roughly equal amount of molasses (slightly more or less to taste) will substitute just fine, but the marinade won’t be quite as sweet.
• 2 tbs. honey
  • Tip: Plain, store brand clover honey is all you need for this recipe.
• 1 tbs. chopped fresh basil or Italian parsley
  • Tip: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• 1 tbs. olive oil
  • Tip: Extra-virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor to the marinade.
  • Note: I really do ‘not’ suggest using canola or corn oil as a substitute, as the flavor of the olive oil seeps into the salmon, forming part of the intended flavor profile.
• 1 tbs. sesame oil
  • Tip: Toasted sesame oil imparts a more intense sesame flavor.
• 3 tsps. fresh lemon juice
  • Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright citrus flavor.

Additional Notes and Tips

Here are few extra important notes and tips for making sure your Honey Sesame Salmon comes out perfect.

• Marinating time: Marinate the salmon for at least one hour or longer to allow the flavors to infuse into the fish. For best results, marinate the salmon overnight.
• Cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon filet. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Cooking method: If you don't have a cast iron frying pan, you can use a regular frying pan or grill the salmon instead.
• Temperature: Ensure the thickest part of the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees F for proper doneness.
• Serving suggestions: Serve the Honey Sesame Glazed Salmon with steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for a day or two and enjoyed as a cold salmon salad the next day. More on leftovers below.

Tips for Selecting the Best Salmon

Freshness is Key: Look for salmon that has a fresh, ocean-like smell. Avoid fish that smells overly fishy or has an unpleasant odor.

1. Check the Color: The color of the salmon can vary depending on the species, but it should generally be vibrant and uniform. Avoid salmon with dull or discolored patches.
2. Firmness and Texture: Gently press the salmon with your finger. It should feel firm and have a smooth, moist texture. Avoid fish that feels soft or mushy.
3. Clear Eyes: If buying whole salmon, check the eyes. They should be clear and bright, not cloudy or sunken.
4. Moist, Not Slimy: The skin of the salmon should be moist, not slimy or dry. Avoid salmon with a sticky or slimy texture.
5. Scales and Skin: Scales should be intact and tightly adhered to the skin. The skin should have a metallic sheen and be free from blemishes.
6. Check for Blood: If buying salmon steaks or fillets, check for any signs of blood around the bones or cuts. Fresh salmon should not have visible blood.
7. Buy from Reputable Sources: Purchase salmon from a reputable fishmonger, seafood market, or grocery store known for quality seafood.
8. Ask for Origin and Harvest Date: If possible, ask for information about the origin and harvest date of the salmon to ensure its freshness.
9. Consider Sustainable Options: Opt for salmon labeled as sustainably sourced or certified by reputable organizations like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council).
10. Wild vs. Farmed: Decide whether you prefer wild-caught or farmed salmon. Wild salmon often has a more robust flavor, while farmed salmon may have a milder taste.
11. Frozen Salmon: If fresh salmon is not available, consider purchasing frozen salmon. High-quality frozen salmon can be a good option, as it's often flash-frozen at its peak freshness.

By following these tips, you'll be able to choose the best salmon possible for your recipes, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

All About Leftovers – Storing, Reheating, and Creative Uses

Here are some tips on how to store, reheat, and use up leftover salmon:

Storing Leftover Salmon:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftover cooked salmon, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
2. Freezing: To extend the shelf life, you can freeze leftover salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Leftover Salmon:

1. Gentle Heat: When reheating leftover salmon, use gentle heat to prevent overcooking and drying out the fish. You can use methods like oven baking, steaming, or right on the stove.
2. Oven Baking: Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Wrap the salmon in foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
3. Steaming: Place the salmon in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for 3-7 minutes until heated. Be sure not to overcook the salmon. Steam it only until its reached your desired level of warmness.
4. Stovetop: My preferred method. Preheat a cast iron pan with some oil or butter, and then lay the salmon in the pan skin side down. Then gently reheat the salmon over medium-low heat. Flip carefully, reheat for another minute or two, and your done.

Using Up Leftover Salmon:

1. Salads: Flake the leftover salmon and use it as a protein-packed topping for salads. It pairs wonderfully with fresh greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing.
2. Pasta: Add flaked salmon to pasta dishes like creamy fettuccine or light lemon spaghetti for a quick and satisfying meal.
   Sandwiches: Create a delicious sandwich by layering leftover salmon with sliced avocado, lettuce, and a smear of tangy aioli between two slices of crusty bread.
3. Salmon Cakes: Transform the leftovers into salmon cakes by mixing it with breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, and seasoning. Pan-fry them until golden brown and serve with a zesty sauce.
4. Sushi Rolls: Incorporate flaked salmon into homemade sushi rolls with cucumber, avocado, and sushi rice for a delightful and nutritious treat.

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Remember, when using up leftover salmon, consider its flavor profile and pair it with complementary ingredients to create new and exciting dishes. With these tips, you can savor the deliciousness of salmon in various ways and reduce food waste in the process.

And that’s our Honey Sesame Salmon! If you enjoyed this recipe, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to left us know in the comments below, we always love hearing from you.

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Happy Cooking!

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