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: 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon crushed pink peppercorns; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 salmon fillets; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I’m always on the lookout for quick and delicious meals, and this Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns has become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet honey and the subtle heat from pink peppercorns creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the rich salmon. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, and the best part is that it only takes 30 minutes from start to finish. I love how simple it is to elevate a classic dish with just a few ingredients.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:22:37.856Z

Preparing this Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns was a delightful experience. I first marinated the salmon in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and crushed pink peppercorns, allowing it to absorb those vibrant flavors. As it cooked, the honey caramelized beautifully, adding a glistening finish that made the dish even more appetizing.

The key to achieving perfectly cooked salmon is not to rush it. I use a medium heat to allow the salmon to flake easily without being dry. Trust me, this method transforms a simple piece of fish into a gourmet meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique flavor profile with the sweet and spicy combination
Quick prep and cook time for a hassle-free dinner
Healthy and beautiful dish that impresses every time

The Role of Pink Peppercorns

Pink peppercorns add not just a pop of color but also a unique flavor that differentiates this dish from traditional salmon recipes. Their mild sweetness and subtle heat enhance the richness of the salmon without overpowering it. If you can’t find pink peppercorns, you can substitute them with crushed black pepper, but the flavor profile will shift slightly, offering more pungency versus the delicate sweetness of the pink variety.

Crushing the pink peppercorns is essential to releasing their aromatic oils, which infuse the honey and soy marinade. A simple tool like a mortar and pestle or even the bottom of a heavy pan can work well. Just be careful not to grind them too finely; a coarse crush provides a delightful texture that you can appreciate when eating.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

For the ultimate flaky texture, ensure your skillet is at medium heat before adding the marinated salmon. This allows the skin to crisp up while the flesh cooks through. If the heat is too high, the outside may cook too quickly and remain raw inside. Look for a golden-brown color on the skin after 5-6 minutes as a sign it’s ready to flip.

When flipping the salmon, use a wide spatula to support the fillet fully, preventing it from breaking apart. Cook the second side for an additional 5-6 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The texture should be tender, not dry, so keep a close eye on it, especially towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve your Honey Glazed Salmon with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The acidity of accompanying lemon wedges not only brightens the dish but also complements the sweetness of the glaze. Additionally, you can drizzle the remaining marinade over your vegetables for added flavor.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding different herbs or spices to the marinade. Fresh dill or cilantro can provide an aromatic twist, while a splash of sesame oil can enhance the overall depth of flavor. For a more substantial side, serve with quinoa or brown rice to soak up all that delicious glaze.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon crushed pink peppercorns
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, crushed pink peppercorns, and olive oil until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes.

Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve with lemon wedges and a drizzle of remaining marinade.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Glazed Salmon!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.

Storage Tips

Leftover Honey Glazed Salmon should be stored in an airtight container and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try to keep the salmon moist by using a low heat setting in the oven or microwave. If using the microwave, place a damp paper towel over the fish to help prevent it from drying out.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the salmon fillets a few hours prior or even overnight. Just remember to place them in the refrigerator during this time. This allows the flavor to deepen and enhances the overall taste of the fish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for a larger gathering. Simply increase the quantities of the marinade and salmon fillets. Just be mindful that cooking time might vary slightly with more fillets in the skillet; avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and a nice sear on the salmon.

For a crowd, consider setting up an assembly line for marinating the salmon, allowing you to maximize efficiency. If cooking multiple batches, keep the first batch warm in the oven on a low setting while finishing the others.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, this marinade works well with many types of fish like trout or tilapia.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ What can I serve with this salmon?

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

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

The marinade can be prepared ahead of time, but it is best to marinate the salmon just before cooking.