Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon

This crispy honey garlic salmon is one of my favorite quick dinners when I want something flavorful without lots of fuss. The balance of sweet honey and tangy soy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender, crispy salmon bites making it a winner for weeknight meals.

I threw this together on a busy evening and it quickly became a staple in our rotation. Every time I make it, the house fills with the most inviting aroma.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet: skinless and boneless cut into bite-sized pieces for quick even cooking. Fresh is best but frozen works well if thawed properly
• Honey: adds natural sweetness and helps create a glossy glaze. Use raw or local honey if you can for extra flavor
• Soy sauce: brings savory umami to balance the sweetness. Low sodium works if you prefer less salt
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic is key for that pungent aromatic foundation
• Rice vinegar: adds a light tang to brighten the flavors. Choose pure for best taste
• Red pepper flakes: optional for heat adjust according to your spice tolerance
• Cornstarch: used for coating the salmon to achieve a crisp crust. Make sure it is fresh for best results
• Salt and pepper: enhance all the flavors and season the coating evenly
• Vegetable oil or sesame oil: for frying gives richness and toasts the coating properly
• Chopped green onions: add a fresh herbal note and a pop of color at the end

Instructions

Build The Marinade:

In a mixing bowl combine the honey soy sauce minced garlic rice vinegar and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly so all flavors marry. This mixture will tenderize and flavor the salmon throughout.

Marinate The Salmon:

Add the salmon pieces ensuring each is well coated. Let them sit for about five minutes. Do not marinate too long or acid will start cooking the fish.

Prepare The Coating:

In a separate bowl season the cornstarch with salt and pepper. This is important because the cornstarch alone won&t season the salmon enough.

Coat The Salmon:

Remove the salmon from the marinade allowing excess to drip off. Toss each piece in the seasoned cornstarch shaking off any extra coating to prevent clumping or sogginess.

Heat The Pan:

Warm the vegetable or sesame oil over medium heat. It should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles gently but not smokes. This ensures an even crisp without burning.

Fry The Salmon:

Add the salmon bites in a single layer without crowding. Cook about three to four minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and crisp. Turning carefully to preserve the crust.

Drain And Serve:

Transfer the cooked salmon to paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the top then garnish with chopped green onions just before serving. This last drizzle adds a fresh punch of flavor.

My favorite part is the crispy coating combined with the sticky honey garlic sauce. It reminds me of sharing meals with my family where everyone reaches eagerly for the last piece. The fresh green onion garnish is a small touch that changes everything.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet to keep the crust crisp rather than microwaving which can make it soggy. If possible avoid freezing because the texture of fried salmon changes.

Ingredient Swaps

Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave for a different kind of sweetness Use tamari for a gluten free soy sauce alternative Try turmeric or smoked paprika sprinkled in the cornstarch for a subtle twist in flavor and color If you like it spicy add finely diced fresh chili instead of flakes for a fresher heat

Serving Ideas

Serve this crispy salmon over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal Pair with sautéed snap peas or steamed broccoli to add crunch and freshness A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds complements the richness of the fish perfectly

Seasonal Twists

Add fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil in summer for brightness Stir in grated ginger with the garlic in fall for warmth and depth In winter incorporate a splash of orange juice in the marinade for a citrus kick that brightens colder meals

This recipe is perfect for quick flavorful dinners that feel special. The balance of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I achieve a crispy coating on the salmon?

Coat the salmon pieces evenly with seasoned cornstarch and ensure the oil is hot before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness in this dish?

Yes, red pepper flakes can be added or omitted according to your preferred spice level.

→ What oil works best for frying the salmon?

Vegetable oil works well, but using sesame oil can add a richer, nutty flavor.

→ How long should the salmon marinate?

A brief marinating time of about 5 minutes helps the salmon absorb the flavors without losing its texture.

→ How can I ensure the salmon pieces cook evenly?

Cut salmon into uniform bite-sized pieces and cook them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.