Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns

Name: Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making Honey Glazed Salmon with Pink Peppercorns during the week. It’s a fantastic dish that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers rich flavor and a beautiful presentation. The sweetness of the honey perfectly balances the savory smoked salmon while the pink peppercorns add a delightful pop of flavor and color. This recipe has quickly become a go-to for dinner parties and family gatherings. The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an easy and impressive option for any occasion.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:06:36.324Z

When I first tried this Honey Glazed Salmon recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was to prepare. The combination of honey and pink peppercorns creates a glaze that not only enhances the salmon's natural flavors but also gives it a beautiful caramelized finish. I remember serving this dish at a small gathering and it was a hit—everyone asked for the recipe!

Over the years, I’ve refined the cooking method to ensure the salmon remains moist and flavorful. I discovered that letting the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite melt in your mouth. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet and savory flavor combination is irresistible
A pop of color and flavor from pink peppercorns enhances presentation
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners

      

Understanding the Flavors

The combination of sweet honey and savory salmon creates a delightful balance that elevates the dish. Honey not only adds sweetness but also contributes to a glossy finish that makes the salmon visually appealing. Additionally, the fragrant pink peppercorns provide a mild heat and fruity flavor that complements the richness of the fish. I recommend using high-quality honey for a more pronounced flavor; local varieties often have distinctive notes that enhance the overall dish.

When selecting your salmon, look for fillets that are firm to the touch and have a vibrant, moist appearance. Freshness is key, as it significantly affects the dish's flavor and texture. If you're pressed for time, you could use pre-marinated salmon from the store—it saves time, but ensure that it isn’t overly sweetened to keep the flavor balance in check.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Cooking the salmon at medium-high heat is crucial to achieving that perfect glaze. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke—if the oil becomes too hot, the honey can caramelize too quickly, leading to burnt edges. Keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks, watching for the edges to turn a beautiful golden brown before flipping. This will ensure the skin crisps up nicely while the flesh remains tender.

If you're unsure whether the salmon is done, use a fork to gently flake the flesh near the thickest part; it should easily separate and appear opaque. If it still looks translucent, give it another minute or two—overcooking can lead to a dry texture, so it's important to monitor doneness closely.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix honey, crushed pink peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the honey mixture over them. Let them marinate for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated salmon, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and glazed.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the top.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. This will enhance the sweet and savory notes of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to honey, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar. Both provide sweetness while offering a unique flavor profile. Just remember that maple syrup is thinner than honey, so you may want to reduce the quantity slightly to maintain the right glaze consistency.

For the pink peppercorns, if you can’t find them, you can substitute with crushed black pepper, though the flavor will be more intense. Alternatively, try using a blend of cracked black and white pepper for a milder heat while still achieving a pleasing visual contrast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This honey glazed salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the filets moist, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. If you want to prepare the dish ahead of time, marinate the salmon in the honey and peppercorn mixture a few hours before cooking; this allows for deeper flavor infusion without compromising texture.

For freezing, place the raw marinated salmon in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to two months. To cook from frozen, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking—this will help maintain the quality and flavor of the salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, other firm fish like trout or halibut can also work well with this glaze.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this without pink peppercorns?

Absolutely! You can omit the pink peppercorns or substitute with regular black pepper for a simpler flavor.

→ What should I serve with this salmon?

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