Next, I heat up my nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, I gently place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, into the pan. This is where the magic begins! As they cook, I spoon some of that heavenly honey glaze over the top of each fillet. The sizzling sound and the golden color beginning to form brings a huge smile to my face.
After 4-5 minutes, I carefully flip the salmon over using my spatula. I love watching the glaze start to caramelize, creating a beautiful crust. I let them cook for another 4-5 minutes, depending on how I like my salmon—slightly underdone for that melt-in-your-mouth texture or cooked through for those who prefer it well done.
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, I remove it from the pan and let it rest on a plate for a minute. While it’s resting, I like to drizzle a little extra honey glaze over the top for added flavor, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this salmon recipe three ways to find the sweet spot for cooking time. If you’re looking for that perfect juicy texture, remember to take the salmon off the heat just before it looks done; it will continue to cook a bit as it rests. I prefer my salmon tender and flaky, so slightly undercooked in the center works beautifully.
Make sure to use fresh honey! The flavor and aroma of pure honey elevate this dish, and it really makes a difference. I once used a generic brand which was overly thick and not as sweet, and oh, the flavor was just not the same. Go for quality honey that enhances the taste!
Lastly, always taste your glaze after mixing it. Sometimes I like a touch more mustard for a kick or a pinch of salt. Adjusting the recipe to your taste is key to making it your own. It’s these little tweaks that make my cooking so personal and enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I’ve made in the past is overcooking the salmon. Trust me, it can go from beautifully tender to dry in a matter of minutes. Always keep an eye on the time, especially when you’re flipping it over. It’s better to check a little early than to let it go too long. (See the next page below to continue…)