Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Recipe

This scrumptious sweet and spicy glazed salmon is a perfect blend of contrasting flavors. The alluring sweetness of the red chili sauce harmonizes with the heat of the sriracha, creating a glaze that is simply irresistible. The addition of ginger gives it an exotic twist, and the scallions add a touch of freshness. It's an easy and quick recipe that will impress all salmon lovers.

Photos of Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe should be readily available in your pantry, the sweet red chili sauce and sriracha might need a trip to the supermarket. These are both Asian sauces that can be found in the international aisle. Sweet red chili sauce is a tangy, sweet sauce commonly used in Thai cuisine, while sriracha is a type of hot sauce made from chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt.

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Ingredients

Wild salmon fillets: These are the star of the show. Choose fresh, good quality fillets for the best flavor and texture.

Kosher salt: This will enhance the natural flavors of the salmon and the glaze.

Sweet red chili sauce: This sauce is sweet, tangy and slightly spicy, and it gives the salmon a beautiful glaze.

Sriracha sauce: This hot sauce adds a kick to the dish, balancing out the sweetness of the red chili sauce.

Ginger: This adds a bit of zing and freshness to the dish.

Scallions: These are used for garnish and add a pop of color and a slight onion flavor.

One reader, Alyss Negron says:

This sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet red chili sauce and sriracha creates a perfect balance of flavors. The salmon turns out tender and juicy, with a delightful kick of heat. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a little spice in their meals!

Alyss Negron

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Glazed Salmon

How to prepare the salmon: This involves preheating the oven, seasoning the salmon, and preparing the glaze.

How to season the salmon: Sprinkle the salmon with kosher salt to enhance its flavor.

How to prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the sweet red chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and ginger to create a sweet and spicy glaze for the salmon.

How to brush the glaze onto the salmon: Use a brush to evenly coat the salmon with the prepared glaze before roasting it in the oven.

How to roast the salmon: Place the glazed salmon in the preheated oven and roast for 8 to 10 minutes until it is cooked to perfection.

How to garnish the salmon: Once the salmon is cooked, garnish it with scallions to add a fresh and flavorful touch to the dish.

How To Make Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon

Chili sauce, Sriracha, and fresh ginger are used to flavor this sweet & spicy glazed salmon. The fish is baked until flaky and all the flavors incorporated.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbwild salmon fillets,cut in 4 pieces
kosher salt
¼cupsweet red chili sauce
1tspsriracha sauce
½tspginger,freshly grated
scallions,sliced, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a sheet pan with olive oil and set aside.
Place salmon on the sheet pan and season with ¼ teaspoon salt.
In a small bowl combine red chili sauce sauce, sriracha and ginger. Brush over the salmon.
Roast in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Garnish with scallions.

Nutrition

Calories: 167.31kcal
Fat: 6.78g
Saturated Fat: 1.44g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.42g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
Carbohydrates: 0.29g
Fiber: 0.05g
Sugar: 0.18g
Protein: 24.59g
Cholesterol: 51.03mg
Sodium: 424.86mg
Calcium: 41.99mg
Potassium: 501.02mg
Iron: 0.70mg
Vitamin A: 46.49µg
Vitamin C: 11.69mg

Expert Advice: Mastering the Art of Glazing Salmon

To ensure your salmon is cooked perfectly, it's important to not overcook it as it can become dry and lose its flavor. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the fillet. A good rule of thumb is to cook the salmon for 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. If your salmon fillet is 1 inch at its thickest part, roast it in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Also, brushing the glaze on the salmon before cooking allows it to caramelize and add a depth of flavor to the fish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salmon Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare sauces in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One pan wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of food and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on.

Invest in quality tools: High-quality knives, kitchen gadgets, and appliances can make meal preparation more efficient.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Recipe

wild salmon fillets - Substitute with arctic char fillets: Arctic char has a similar texture and flavor to salmon, making it a great substitute for this recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
sweet red chili sauce - Substitute with apricot preserves mixed with a dash of hot sauce: The apricot preserves mixed with hot sauce can replicate the sweet and spicy flavor profile of the chili sauce.
sriracha sauce - Substitute with sambal oelek: Sambal oelek offers a similar level of heat and a slightly different flavor profile, complementing the dish with its spiciness.
ginger - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can provide a warm, citrusy flavor similar to ginger, adding depth to the glaze.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, similar to scallions, as a garnish for the dish.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Salmon Dish

Elevate the salmon fillets: Gently place the perfectly cooked salmon fillets on the plate, ensuring they are positioned with precision and care.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color to the plate with a garnish of finely sliced scallions, adding a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Create a harmonious balance of flavors: Ensure the sweet and spicy glaze is delicately brushed onto the salmon, creating a beautiful contrast of flavors that will tantalize the taste buds of the esteemed judges.
Emphasize the quality of the salmon: Showcase the wild-caught salmon fillets with pride, highlighting their freshness and superior quality.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate precision in plating: Pay meticulous attention to the arrangement of the dish, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully placed to create a visually striking and balanced composition.
Highlight the glaze: Allow the glossy, sweet and spicy glaze to glisten under the light, drawing attention to the expertly prepared salmon and its delectable coating.
Emphasize the artistry of the dish: Showcase the dish as a work of culinary art, with each element thoughtfully presented to convey a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon

Oven: Used for roasting the salmon fillets at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sheet pan: Used to place the salmon fillets for roasting in the oven.
Small bowl: Used for combining the red chili sauce, sriracha, and ginger for the glaze.
Brush: Used to apply the glaze onto the salmon fillets before roasting.
Scallions: Used as a garnish for the roasted salmon.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Glazed Salmon Leftovers

Let the sweet and spicy glazed salmon cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. This will help prevent the glaze from becoming soggy and keep the salmon fresh for longer.
Store the cooled salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to place it in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back, to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible.
If you want to freeze the glazed salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference later.
Freeze the salmon for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave until it's heated through.
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the sweet and spicy glaze, avoid freezing the salmon for too long. The longer it stays in the freezer, the more likely it is to develop freezer burn or lose its optimal taste and texture.
When reheating the glazed salmon, be careful not to overcook it, as this can cause the fish to become dry and tough. Reheat it just until it's heated through and the glaze is warm and bubbly.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Glazed Salmon

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the top of the salmon with a thin layer of sweet red chili sauce and a dash of sriracha to revive the glaze. Cover the salmon loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the glaze is bubbling.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the glazed salmon in the microwave. Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the salmon moist during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the salmon, as it can quickly become dry and rubbery in the microwave.
If you have a steamer basket, you can use it to gently reheat the sweet and spicy salmon. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the salmon in the steamer basket and set it over the simmering water. Cover the pot and steam the salmon for 5-7 minutes, or until it is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the salmon and prevents it from drying out.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the leftover salmon in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the salmon, glaze-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the salmon is heated through. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to quickly reheat the glazed salmon and restore its crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the glaze is bubbling. Keep an eye on the salmon to ensure it doesn't burn or dry out in the air fryer.

Fascinating Trivia About Glazed Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients such as vitamin B12 and selenium. These nutrients are essential for brain health, heart health, and overall well-being.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Salmon Recipe Economical?

This sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, wild salmon, can be a bit pricey, but the other ingredients like sweet red chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and ginger are relatively affordable and can be used for multiple recipes. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $20. The dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a hit for all palates. I would rate this recipe a solid 9 for its taste, health benefits, and affordability.

Is This Glazed Salmon Recipe Healthy?

This sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe is a healthy choice for several reasons:

Wild salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health
The recipe uses minimal added salt, reducing the overall sodium content
The glaze is made with natural ingredients like red chili sauce, sriracha, and ginger, which provide flavor without relying on excessive sugar or artificial additives
Scallions add a fresh, nutritious garnish to the dish

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free version of the sweet red chili sauce to reduce the overall sugar content
Use a reduced-sodium soy sauce in place of the kosher salt to add more depth of flavor while keeping sodium levels in check
Serve the salmon with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or a colorful salad, to create a well-rounded meal

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate additional anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric or cayenne pepper into the glaze
Brush the salmon with a small amount of heart-healthy olive oil before applying the glaze to boost the monounsaturated fat content
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish for an extra dose of vitamin C and bright flavor
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, over the top for added crunch and healthy fats

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Glazed Salmon Recipe

This sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The sweet red chili sauce and sriracha create a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, while the ginger adds a refreshing zing. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors of the wild salmon to shine through, resulting in a dish that is both delicious and nutritious. The quick roasting time ensures that the salmon remains moist and tender. Overall, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a quick and flavorful way to prepare salmon.

Enhance Your Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing the sweet and spicy flavors of the glazed salmon.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and refreshing element to the dish.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fragrant cilantro, providing a flavorful and aromatic accompaniment to the sweet and spicy glazed salmon.

Delicious Alternatives to Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Marinate the shrimp in a spicy sauce and grill until charred. Serve in warm tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken: Coat chicken in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze and bake until golden and sticky. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: Top grilled fish with a refreshing mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, and lime juice. Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage.

Coconut Curry Vegetable Stir-Fry: Sauté a mix of colorful vegetables in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for a Complete Salmon Dinner

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these crispy coconut shrimp. Each bite is a perfect combination of crunchy coconut and succulent shrimp, served with a tangy dipping sauce for an irresistible appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of sweet strawberry sauce for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh, high-quality wild salmon and a flavorful combination of sweet red chili sauce, sriracha, and ginger to create a delicious glaze. The use of kosher salt ensures the perfect seasoning, while the cooking method of roasting in the oven allows the salmon to cook evenly and retain its moisture. The addition of scallions as a garnish adds a pop of color and freshness. With these carefully selected ingredients and precise cooking instructions, you can trust that this sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe will deliver a mouthwatering and satisfying dish.

Want to share your own salmon recipes or discuss cooking techniques? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation about this sweet and spicy glazed salmon dish.

FAQ:

What is sweet red chili sauce and where can I find it?

Sweet red chili sauce is a popular condiment made from red chili peppers, sugar, vinegar, and garlic. You can find it in the international foods aisle of most grocery stores or at Asian specialty markets.

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish such as trout, cod, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Is there a substitute for sriracha sauce if I don't like spicy food?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the sriracha sauce with a combination of honey and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy glaze.

Can I prepare this recipe on the grill instead of in the oven?

Absolutely! You can grill the salmon over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, brushing the glaze on during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it to keep it moist and tender.