Sriracha Honey Salmon with Rice
Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals
When I first discovered the magic of Sriracha and honey together, I knew I had to create a dish that showcased their flavorful partnership. I decided to use salmon, which pairs beautifully with this zesty glaze, adding a sweet and spicy kick to perfectly cooked rice. The combination of these ingredients results in a delightful meal that excites the palate and fills the belly. Trust me, this dish will become a new favorite at your dinner table as it offers both comfort and a culinary adventure all in one.
My experience in the kitchen has shown me that some of the best recipes come from a few key ingredients that I love. When I brought Sriracha and honey together, it was an instant match made in culinary heaven! The sweet and fiery glaze coats the salmon perfectly, enhancing its natural flavors while keeping it moist and tender.
I often serve this Sriracha honey salmon on a bed of fluffy rice, which absorbs the delightful juices. The perfect balance is achieved when I sprinkle some chopped green onions on top, adding flavor and a pop of color. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also looks stunning on the plate!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of sweet and spicy in every bite.
- Deliciously tender salmon that practically flakes with a fork.
- Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Mastering the Marinade
The marinade for the Sriracha honey salmon is a crucial element that transforms the dish from simple to spectacular. The blend of Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil not only creates an appealing sticky glaze but also infuses the salmon with layers of flavor. When whisking the ingredients together, ensure that the honey is fully dissolved to prevent any clumps during cooking. You can always adjust the heat level by adding more or less Sriracha based on your preference.
In addition to enhancing flavor, the marinade serves to tenderize the salmon. The sugars in honey help caramelize the fish when cooked at the right temperature, creating an appealing golden crust. Make sure to reserve half of the marinade for glazing during cooking; this step ensures that your salmon gets that glossy, sticky finish we all crave.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon
When cooking salmon, it's essential to use a non-stick skillet over medium heat to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Start with the skin side down; this not only keeps the fish from overcooking but also allows the skin to crisp up nicely. Cooking times will depend on the thickness of your fillets. A general rule of thumb is around 5-6 minutes on the skin side before flipping, followed by another 5-7 minutes after adding the glaze. Watch for the salmon to flake easily with a fork—this is your cue that it's done.
If you're using salmon fillets with the skin on, consider leaving the skin on during cooking for added flavor and moisture. If you prefer skinless, just monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking. Also, if your fillets are particularly thick, you might need to reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook through without burning the glaze.
Servings and Variations
This Sriracha honey salmon pairs wonderfully with a side of jasmine rice, but you can easily switch things up. For a healthier option, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice, which will soak up the marinade beautifully. You can also add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition and color. If you're looking to add some crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed peanuts over the finished dish for an unexpected twist.
This recipe is also flexible in terms of flavorings. Feel free to experiment with other chili sauces if Sriracha is too spicy for your taste. Sweet chili sauce or even teriyaki sauce can work beautifully, giving you a different flavor profile while maintaining that sweet and spicy balance. Lastly, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it a terrific option for meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- Salt, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the dish.
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This will become the glaze for your salmon.
Cook the Salmon
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the salmon fillets, skin side down. Pour half of the marinade over the salmon. Cook for 5-6 minutes, then flip the salmon and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and divide it between two plates. Top with the spicy honey salmon and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Deliciously serve and enjoy your meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before cooking. It will enhance the taste even further. Additionally, adjusting the Sriracha level to your desired spiciness can give your dish a personalized touch.
Storage Tips
After preparing your Sriracha honey salmon, it's essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their quality. Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For freezing, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months, but for the best flavor, consume it sooner rather than later.
When ready to reheat, avoid using the microwave as it can dry out the salmon. Instead, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, just until warmed through. For an added boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of water or a drizzle of oil to keep it moist.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your salmon isn't flaking easily, it may be undercooked. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, you can return it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute or two. Alternatively, if it's overcooked and appears dry, consider serving it with a drizzle of extra honey or a splash of lemon juice to add moisture and brightness back to the dish.
Another common issue can be the glaze burning. If you notice this while cooking, reduce the heat immediately. The sugars in the glaze can caramelize quickly; maintaining a medium heat gives you better control and prevents charring.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure to properly thaw it ahead of time for even cooking.
→ What can I substitute for Sriracha?
You can use any hot sauce you like, but the flavor profile might change slightly.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
→ What side dishes go well with this salmon?
Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad make great accompaniments.
Sriracha Honey Salmon with Rice
When I first discovered the magic of Sriracha and honey together, I knew I had to create a dish that showcased their flavorful partnership. I decided to use salmon, which pairs beautifully with this zesty glaze, adding a sweet and spicy kick to perfectly cooked rice. The combination of these ingredients results in a delightful meal that excites the palate and fills the belly. Trust me, this dish will become a new favorite at your dinner table as it offers both comfort and a culinary adventure all in one.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Simple & Tasty Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- Salt, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How-To Steps
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
In a small bowl, whisk together the Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This will become the glaze for your salmon.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the salmon fillets, skin side down. Pour half of the marinade over the salmon. Cook for 5-6 minutes, then flip the salmon and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and divide it between two plates. Top with the spicy honey salmon and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before cooking. It will enhance the taste even further. Additionally, adjusting the Sriracha level to your desired spiciness can give your dish a personalized touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g