This Honey Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish featuring flaky salmon fillets glazed with a sweet, tangy, and garlicky butter sauce.
It’s a vibrant, mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Sweet and Savory: A perfect balance of honey, lime, and garlic.
Moist and Flaky: Salmon stays tender and juicy.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup.
Versatile: Great for entertaining or meal prepping.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Salmon Fillets: Skin-on or skinless, wild-caught if possible.
Honey: Natural sweetness and beautiful glaze.
Fresh Lime Juice and Zest: Bright and tangy flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced for bold aroma.
Butter: Richness and depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Fresh Cilantro (optional): For garnish and an herbal lift.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat Salmon Dry: Ensures the sauce adheres well.
Use Fresh Lime: Bottled lime juice won’t deliver the same vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overbake: Salmon should be opaque and flake easily.
Marinate Briefly: For deeper flavor, marinate salmon in the sauce for 15 minutes before baking.
Line Your Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
How to Make Honey Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Spoon or brush the honey lime garlic butter sauce generously over the salmon.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Broil (Optional)
For a caramelized finish, broil for 2–3 minutes until the glaze bubbles and lightly browns.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges if desired.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
Cilantro lime rice
Roasted or steamed asparagus
Grilled corn on the cob
Simple garden salad
Quinoa or couscous
Variations / Substitutions
Swap Lemon for Lime: For a slightly different citrus flavor.
Use Maple Syrup: Instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.
Add Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick.
Try Other Fish: Cod, halibut, or trout work beautifully.
Butter-Free: Substitute extra olive oil for a lighter version.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon without sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Tip: Flake leftover salmon over salads or into wraps!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and marinate the salmon a few hours ahead. Bake just before serving.
How do I prevent overcooking the salmon?
Use a meat thermometer — salmon is done at 145°F (63°C).
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?
Yes! Grill over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side.
Should I remove the salmon skin before baking?
No need — baking with the skin helps lock in moisture.
Remove after cooking if desired.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
Parsley or green onions make great alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Honey Lime Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a gorgeous, flavor-packed dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.
With its tender, flaky salmon and sweet-savory glaze, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Whisk melted butter, honey, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place salmon on the sheet and coat with sauce.
Bake 15–18 minutes until salmon flakes easily.
(Optional) Broil for 2–3 minutes for a caramelized glaze.
Garnish with cilantro and serve.
