Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns

Name: Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Fresh Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns, especially when I’m looking for a dish that is both delicious and easy to make. The combination of sweet honey and the subtle heat from pink peppercorns creates a unique flavor profile that makes this salmon dish truly special. This recipe has become a staple in my home, whether I’m cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends. It never fails to impress, and the best part is that it’s on the table in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:01:34.571Z

When I first tried making Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a complex flavor. The honey caramelizes beautifully, giving the salmon a crispy exterior while keeping it juicy on the inside. I like to marinate the salmon for a short while to infuse it with flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

One thing I discovered is that adding a dash of soy sauce to the honey enhances the umami flavor without overpowering the dish. This little twist elevates the dish, creating a perfect balance between sweet and savory that has everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful sweetness of honey harmonizes perfectly with the salmon.
Pink peppercorns add a unique flavor and a pop of color.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a flavorful Honey Glazed Salmon lies in the quality of the salmon fillets themselves. Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon when available, as it has a rich flavor and firm texture that holds up beautifully during cooking. Farmed salmon can be used, but it may have a milder taste. Additionally, consider leaving the skin on during cooking to help maintain moisture and add a delightful crispiness once seared.

Honey not only sweetens the dish but also caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a glossy glaze. For a richer flavor, choose darker honey, such as buckwheat or wildflower honey. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, agave syrup can be used in place of honey, though it may lead to a slightly different flavor profile. When it comes to pink peppercorns, their floral and spicy notes bring a unique touch—don't substitute with black pepper as it won't yield the same vibrant results.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the salmon, maintaining the right heat is essential. Medium heat allows the fish to cook evenly without burning the exterior. Look for a shimmering surface in the oil before adding the fillets, ensuring a nice sear. If you notice the edges curling or the fish begins to smoke, lower the heat slightly. Ideally, you want the flesh to turn from translucent to an opaque pink, which indicates it's almost done.

Basting the salmon with the marinade during the final cooking phase enriches its flavor and enhances the glaze. Use a spoon to gently pour the marinade over the fillets every couple of minutes. This technique helps create a beautifully sticky surface while ensuring the salmon stays moist. Remember to store any leftover marinade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week; it can be used as a dressing for salads or drizzled over grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving

Enjoy your meal!

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, crushed pink peppercorns, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets.

Glaze and Finish Cooking

Pour the remaining marinade over the salmon and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, basting occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve with lemon wedges along with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious salmon!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. This enhances both the presentation and taste.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it, as this could dry out the fish. Ideally, enjoy the leftovers in a salad or as a sandwich filling for a quick meal.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked salmon. Place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring all air is removed. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The texture may differ slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still be delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Honey Glazed Salmon alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. The sweetness of the dish pairs wonderfully with the bitterness of greens like arugula or kale. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or wild rice, both of which will absorb the flavorful glaze.

For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh herbs such as dill or parsley, which add a burst of freshness that complements the honey glaze. You could also introduce a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to enhance the dish's brightness. Pair with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complete the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I serve with Honey Glazed Salmon?

This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can also be great alternatives for a similar sweetness.