Mediterranean Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Mediterranean Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers big flavor with very little effort. Tender salmon fillets are baked until flaky, then coated in a glossy sauce made from honey, garlic, butter, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. The sweetness of honey balances the richness of the salmon, while garlic and lemon keep the dish bright and savory. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or even entertaining, because it looks impressive but comes together quickly. It is nourishing, comforting, and satisfying without feeling heavy.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: About 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (about 150 g each)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Honey Garlic Butter Sauce
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
3 tablespoons honey
Juice of ½ lemon
½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
Garnish (Optional)
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Lemon slices
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Place the salmon skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add minced garlic and cook gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in honey, lemon juice, and dried herbs.
Remove the sauce from heat and mix well.
Spoon the honey garlic butter evenly over the salmon fillets.
Bake for 15–18 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.
Tips
Use fresh, high-quality salmon for best flavor.
Pat salmon dry to help the sauce cling.
Do not overcook to keep salmon moist.
Melt butter gently to avoid browning.
Add garlic briefly to prevent bitterness.
Use mild honey for balanced sweetness.
Bake uncovered for better glazing.
Let salmon rest 2 minutes before serving.
Spoon pan juices over salmon when plating.
Pair with simple sides to let salmon shine.
Variations
Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Use maple syrup instead of honey.
Add Dijon mustard to the sauce.
Replace butter with olive oil for lighter version.
Add capers for a briny contrast.
Use fresh thyme or rosemary.
Bake salmon with asparagus or green beans.
Add orange zest for citrus aroma.
Use garlic butter on trout or cod.
Finish with toasted sesame seeds.
Q&A
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry.
How do I know when salmon is done?
It flakes easily and is opaque inside.
Can I pan-sear instead of bake?
Yes, but baking keeps it moist.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweetness makes it appealing.
Can I reduce the honey?
Yes, adjust to taste.
Does butter make it heavy?
Used in moderation, it stays balanced.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead?
Yes, refrigerate and rewarm gently.
What sides work best?
Roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter.
How long do leftovers keep?
Up to 2 days refrigerated.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 420–450
Protein: 35–38 g
Carbohydrates: 12–14 g
Fat: 26–28 g
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D
Conclusion
Mediterranean Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a recipe that proves simple ingredients can create exceptional results. The balance of sweet, savory, and rich flavors highlights the natural goodness of salmon without masking it. Whether served for a quick family dinner or a special meal with guests, this dish fits effortlessly into a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle. Easy to prepare, nourishing, and full of flavor, it is a recipe you can rely on whenever you want something both comforting and elegant.