This baked salmon uses a lightly sweet soy glaze that seasons without overpowering. Made with just the right amount of soy sauce, honey, fresh and powdered garlic, and a short marinade for tender, flaky results. Works with fresh or frozen salmon.
¼cuphoneythis adds enough flavor and sweetness without turning the fish into candy - maple syrup is a good substitute
2½tablespoonssoy saucesoy sauce is a seasoning here and not the base — using more easily overpowers the salmon
1clovegarlicfinely minced
⅛teaspoongarlic powder
¼-inchpiece fresh gingergrated; optional, but highly recommended if you have it — it adds warmth and depth without dominating
salt & freshly ground black pepperto taste; go lightly with salt; the soy sauce already contributes saltiness
1½poundssalmonI strongly prefer two larger pieces with the skin on — they baste better and stay juicier. Frozen individual fillets also work; thaw fully and pat dry before using.
Instructions
Prep:This recipe works best in a casserole dish that comfortably holds the salmon without crowding. Using a properly sized dish helps the glaze stay concentrated and makes basting easier. Get your ingredients ready.
Assemble the sauce directly in the dish:Whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, garlic powder, grated ginger (if using), salt, and pepper.
¼ cup honey, 2½ tablespoons soy sauce, 1 clove garlic, ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼- inch piece fresh ginger, salt & freshly ground black pepper
Marinate the salmon briefly:Add the salmon to the dish, turning it a few times to coat in the glaze. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, turning the salmon once halfway through.
1½ pounds salmon
Bake:When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400°F.Place the uncovered dish in the oven and bake for 12–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon and your preferred internal temperature.Halfway through baking, baste the salmon with the pan juices to keep it moist and evenly glazed.
Finish and serve:Once the salmon reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven. Immediately baste again with the pan juices and serve after a short rest, spooning the remaining glaze over the top.
Notes
Important: If marinating longer than 30 minutes, transfer the salmon and marinade to a different container. Taking a cold casserole dish straight from the fridge into a hot oven can cause thermal shock and cracking.