Ingredients:

  • 2 (6 oz / 170g) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp honey (30 ml)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (30 ml)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (15 ml)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (15 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 1 tsp)
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (approx. ½ tsp)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1 tbsp water (15 ml)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Chopped green onions (scallions) (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and water in a small bowl. Set aside the honey-garlic glaze.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup). Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Brush half of the honey-garlic glaze evenly over the salmon fillets. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Brush the remaining glaze over the salmon in the last 2 minutes of baking.
  4. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Pour the honey-garlic glaze over the salmon in the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (scallions), if desired. Serve immediately.