One-Pot Sticky Salmon: A Simple, Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Hi friends! If your evenings are anything like mine—packed with homework, sports practice, and that endless mountain of laundry—you know the struggle of getting a healthy dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where this One-Pot Sticky Salmon recipe comes in.
This dish is one of my go-to meals for busy nights. It’s flavorful, healthy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, which means fewer dishes to clean (can I get an amen?). Trust me, this sticky, sweet, and savory salmon is a winner for even the pickiest eaters in the family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot.
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 25 minutes.
- Packed with flavor: The sticky glaze is a magical mix of honey, soy sauce, and a hint of spice.
- Healthy: Salmon is rich in omega-3s and pairs perfectly with your favorite veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For the dish:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on or off
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup sugar snap peas or green beans
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or shallow pan over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for about 3 minutes until golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove the salmon and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
In the same pan, toss in the bell pepper, zucchini, and sugar snap peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
Pour the glaze over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Return the Salmon
Nestle the salmon fillets back into the pan, spooning some glaze over the top. Cover and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and shiny.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your sticky salmon over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for that extra wow factor.
Tips for Perfect Sticky Salmon
- Choose fresh salmon: Look for fillets with vibrant color and a fresh, ocean-like smell.
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. It should flake easily with a fork but remain moist.
- Prep ahead: Whip up the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
One-Pot Sticky Salmon
Ingredients
For the glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
For the dish:
- 4 salmon fillets skin-on or off
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup sugar snap peas or green beans
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or shallow pan over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for about 3 minutes until golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove the salmon and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
- In the same pan, toss in the bell pepper, zucchini, and sugar snap peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
- Pour the glaze over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Return the Salmon
- Nestle the salmon fillets back into the pan, spooning some glaze over the top. Cover and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and shiny.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve your sticky salmon over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for that extra wow factor.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. Pat it dry to help it sear nicely.
Is there a substitute for honey?
Yes! Maple syrup or brown sugar works beautifully if you’re out of honey.
Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prepare the glaze and chop the veggies ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the salmon fresh to keep it tender.
What sides go best with this dish?
Rice, cauliflower rice, or even a side of roasted potatoes pairs wonderfully. You can also serve it with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a delicious, fuss-free dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. This One-Pot Sticky Salmon has become a staple in our house, and I hope it will in yours too!
If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more quick and easy meal ideas.
Now, go grab your skillet and make some magic in the kitchen! 🍴