Juicy, flaky, with just the right amount of sweetness compliment the savory meaty flavor of the fish. This has been one of my go to meals for years not just because of taste but ease. The dish requires just two ingredients: salmon and honey. You can take the step further (which I highly recommend) by brining the fish. Details on brining further in the post.
Why brine?
- Brining enhances the foods flavor throughout not just on the surface
- Enhance moisture and juiciness through osmosis
- Tenderizes by causing the proteins to loosen and denature
Brining Seafood
As mentioned above, there are two options of brines: dry or wet. The salt adds to the flavor as well as texture of the fish by helping the salmon remain juicy and flaky. So which option should you choose? And for how long? Start on the lower end of the brining range if it is your first time or if you have a smaller cut of fish.
Wet Brine
- Shorter total time to brine: 12-15 minutes total
- Works with any salt on hand just adjust amount by conversion ½ table salt for kosher salt
- Not recommended to make ahead
- More involved clean up
Dry Brine
- Longer time of 1-4 hours but can be assembled a few hours ahead
- Requires kosher salt. Do not substitute for table salt.
- Easier clean up especially for large cuts of fish. Simply pat dry before glazing.
Easy 30 Minute Honey Glazed Salmon
A delicious easy weeknight meal made with 3 ingredients .
Ingredients
Instructions
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If using wet brine skips to wet brine section. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and grease with oil of choice or line with parchment paper. Pat fish dry with paper towels.
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Dry Brine
1-4 hours before baking, sprinkle the top side of the fish with kosher salt. Place fish back in the fridge until ready to bake. Once ready to bake pat salmon dry with paper towels.
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Wet Brine
15 minutes before baking mix 3 tbsp of kosher salt or 2 tbsp table salt with 3 cups of water. Submerged fish for 12-15 minutes. Dry and place on oiled or parchment lined baking sheet.
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Preheat the oven to 425F with a rack in the upper middle position. Brush salmon with honey. Note if the honey is thick and warm in the microwave for 15 seconds for easy spreading. Once temperature is reached, place salmon in the upper middle rack. You can continue to bake at 425F or switch to broiler. The salmon should bake for 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 135-145F. Serve with desired sides.Â
