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Quick Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls in 20 Minutes

honey garlic salmon bowls - featured image

These Quick Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls are a fast, forgiving weeknight dinner that delivers sticky-sweet, savory flavor in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine or basmati)
  • Vegetables (optional: steamed broccoli, snap peas, or shredded carrots)
  • Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Start your rice. In a small pot, combine 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes (or according to package instructions). Once done, fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and the minced garlic. Set aside.
  3. Season the salmon. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat the pan. Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil (avocado or vegetable oil works well). Wait until the oil shimmers and ripples.
  5. Sear the salmon. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press down gently with a spatula for about 10 seconds. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy and releases easily.
  6. Flip and glaze. Carefully flip the salmon fillets. Pour the prepared sauce into the pan around the salmon. Let the sauce bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes, spooning it over the salmon as it thickens.
  7. Check doneness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If you prefer it slightly medium, cook to 125°F (52°C).
  8. Assemble the bowls. Divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Place a salmon fillet on top of each bowl. Spoon any remaining sauce from the pan over the salmon and rice. Add your steamed vegetables on the side, if using.
  9. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry for a good sear. Watch the sauce carefully to prevent burning. Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving. For extra crispy skin, after flipping, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the skin side before glazing.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic salmon, salmon bowls, quick dinner, weeknight meal, salmon recipe, honey garlic glaze