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Brown Sugar Garlic Salmon

A delightful salmon dish featuring sweet and savory flavors with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic Butter
  • 3 tbsp salted butter Adds a creamy richness that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • 6 cloves garlic (pressed) Infuses the salmon with a bold, aromatic profile.
  • ½ tsp black pepper Offers mild heat that enhances the dish.
  • ½ tsp sweet paprika Adds subtle smokiness and color to the fillets.
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice Provides tangy brightness to balance the sauce.
For the Salmon
  • 4 fillets skinless salmon (or skin-on) Tender and flaky, the perfect canvas for the glaze.
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil Used for searing to achieve a golden crust.
  • ½ cup low sodium soy sauce Adds depth and umami flavor.
  • ¼ cup brown sugar Sweetens the sauce and creates a glossy finish.
  • 2 scallions (chopped, for topping) Adds crunch and color.
  • 1 pepper chili (deseeded and chopped) Adds a kick of heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix the salted butter with pressed garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and sweet paprika until well blended.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and score a diamond pattern on the top of each fillet.
  3. Divide the garlic butter mixture among the salmon fillets, spreading it generously on the scored side.
  4. Deseed and chop the chili pepper and chop the scallions.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the low sodium soy sauce with brown sugar until dissolved.
Cooking
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat and place the salmon fillets into the pan with the buttered side down.
  2. Sear for about 2 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms.
  3. Pour the prepared soy sauce and brown sugar mixture over the fillets and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the salmon.
Serving
  1. Remove the salmon from heat when cooked through and top with chopped scallions and chili pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best results, ensure your salmon is at room temperature before cooking. Try using different fish or substituting brown sugar with honey for a variation.