Honey Bourbon Glazed Salmon

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1/4 cup bourbon

• 1/2 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon Dijon or whole grain mustard

• 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (to taste)

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

• 1-2 garlic cloves, finely minced

• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil or cooking spray, for pan

Instructions

1. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, honey, soy sauce, mustard, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously, then lower to medium and simmer about 5 minutes, until syrupy and reduced by half. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Spray or brush with oil. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towel, then season with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Glaze and bake: Place salmon skin-side down on prepared baking sheet. Brush a layer of glaze over each fillet. Bake for 8 minutes, remove from oven, and brush another layer of glaze. Return to oven and bake an additional 6–8 minutes, or until edges are lightly charred and flesh flakes with a fork.

4. Finish and serve: Serve salmon hot, drizzled with remaining glaze and a fresh squeeze of lime. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

• For extra caramelization, broil the last 1–2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.