My Husband loves salmon, but sometimes he finds store-bought sauces too sweet in flavor and artificial. In this Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice recipe, the balance of honey, garlic, and soy sauce is just right and brings out the natural richness of the salmon without being overpowering. The ginger adds a subtle zing that complements the sweetness, and the caramelized glaze makes it look and taste restaurant-quality. The rice acts as the perfect base to soak up the flavorful glaze, making it a comforting meal for any night of the week. This recipe is quick, easy, and ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even a special date night at home.

I have always loved cooking salmon because it’s quick and healthy. I use fresh fillets, and I always make sure to pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear. I also always taste my glaze as I cook to make sure it’s balanced between sweet, salty, and slightly tangy. This method makes every dinner feel special without a lot of effort.

You can serve Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. Some sliced avocado or a side of cucumber salad works beautifully. Also with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top, it becomes a colorful and inviting plate. For a more filling meal, serve it with miso soup or a simple green salad on the side.

Its Perfect For:

• Quick weeknight dinners that feel fancy
• Cozy family meals everyone enjoys
• Preparing ahead for lunch meal prep
• Special date nights at home
• Anyone who loves sweet and savory flavors

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large skillet or frying pan for cooking salmon
• Small mixing bowl for the glaze
• Measuring spoons for precise ingredients
• Spatula or tongs for flipping the salmon
• Knife and cutting board for prep
• Serving plates
• Fork for fluffing the rice

How to Make Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice

Step 1

Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the glaze.

Step 2

Make the honey glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Make sure the honey is fully incorporated to avoid clumps.

Step 3

Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on) and sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for another 3–4 minutes.

Step 4

Add the glaze: Reduce heat to low and pour the honey glaze over the salmon. Spoon the glaze over the fillets continuously for 2–3 minutes so it caramelizes slightly and coats the salmon evenly. Be careful not to burn the glaze.

Step 5

Prepare the rice: While the salmon cooks, reheat or cook your choice of rice. Fluff with a fork and keep warm until serving.

Step 6

Serve the dish: Place a portion of rice on each plate and top with a salmon fillet. Spoon extra honey glaze from the pan over the salmon. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tips for Best Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice 

• Always pat the salmon dry before cooking. Wet fillets will steam instead of sear and won’t caramelize properly.
• Use medium heat to prevent burning the honey glaze. Honey burns quickly, so watch it closely.
• Spoon the glaze over the salmon while it cooks. This keeps it moist and flavorful throughout.
• Let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. It helps the juices settle for a tender bite.
• Taste the glaze before serving. You can add a little extra soy sauce or lime juice to balance sweetness.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for both flavor and presentation.
• If you like extra sticky glaze, reduce the sauce for a few more minutes until thicker.

Optional Ingredients:

• Lime juice for extra tanginess
• Sesame oil for a nutty aroma
• Red pepper flakes for mild heat
• Brown sugar for deeper sweetness
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Thinly sliced cucumber for a refreshing side

How to serve Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice?

I love serving this salmon directly over warm, fluffy rice. The rice soaks up all the sweet and savory glaze, making every bite satisfying. You can plate it neatly with vegetables on the side, like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli, for a balanced and visually appealing meal.

I sometimes like to drizzle a little extra glaze over the salmon once it’s on the plate. This gives it a glossy, restaurant-quality look and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh herbs on top also enhances both taste and presentation.

I enjoy serving this meal with small sides to complement it. A simple cucumber salad, pickled veggies, or even a bowl of miso soup can turn this dish into a full, wholesome dinner. It’s easy to make each plate look special and inviting, whether for family or guests.

Is Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice healthy?

Yes, this dish is healthy because salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart and brain health.

The glaze adds a little sweetness, but using moderate honey and pairing it with rice and vegetables makes it a balanced meal. It’s perfect for anyone trying to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Maple Glazed Salmon: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer, slightly smoky sweetness. It caramelizes beautifully in the pan.
• Teriyaki Style: Use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of honey glaze for a classic Japanese flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Spicy Honey Salmon: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a sweet and spicy twist. Great for those who love a little heat.
• Garlic Butter Salmon: Mix melted butter and garlic with honey instead of olive oil for a richer, buttery glaze.
• Brown Sugar Glaze: Replace honey with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. Works best with a quick broil at the end.
• Citrus Honey Salmon: Add orange or lemon juice to the glaze for a bright, tangy note. Pairs well with light, steamed rice.
• Honey Soy Salmon Bowl: Serve over brown rice with avocado, cucumber, and pickled vegetables for a healthy bowl meal.
• Herb Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze while cooking. This adds an aromatic herbal flavor to the salmon.

How to store and reheat:

Store leftover honey glazed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to keep it fresh. Rice should be stored separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra glaze. Cover and warm gently for 3–5 minutes until heated through. Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if it seems dry. This method keeps the salmon moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice 

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can, but make sure it is completely thawed before cooking. Patting it dry helps it sear properly and prevents excess moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze and salmon separately and store in the fridge. Combine just before reheating for fresh-tasting dinner.

What type of rice works best?
White, jasmine, or brown rice all work. Fluff it with a fork before serving so it absorbs the glaze evenly and tastes light and tender.

Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes. Add the glaze near the last 2–3 minutes to caramelize without burning it.

Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: American, Asian FusionDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Quick and easy Honey Glazed Salmon with Rice recipe. Tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet and savory honey glaze, served over fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a healthy date night.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions

• Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the glaze.
• Make the honey glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Make sure the honey is fully incorporated to avoid clumps.
• Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on) and sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
• Add the glaze: Reduce heat to low and pour the honey glaze over the salmon. Spoon the glaze over the fillets continuously for 2–3 minutes so it caramelizes slightly and coats the salmon evenly. Be careful not to burn the glaze.
• Prepare the rice: While the salmon cooks, reheat or cook your choice of rice. Fluff with a fork and keep warm until serving.
• Serve the dish: Place a portion of rice on each plate and top with a salmon fillet. Spoon extra honey glaze from the pan over the salmon. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.