Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary journey with our sensational Cajun Honey Butter Salmon. This dish features perfectly cooked, flaky salmon fillets infused with bold Cajun spices, then generously brushed with a luscious, sweet honey butter glaze, and finally baked to tender perfection. The vibrant Cajun seasoning introduces a delightful warmth and subtle kick, while the rich, golden honey butter glaze provides a harmonizing touch of sweetness. The result is a beautifully balanced, incredibly flavorful, and irresistibly juicy salmon dish that’s astonishingly quick and easy to prepare, making it a stellar choice for any meal.
Craving more exquisite salmon creations? Don’t miss out on exploring other delectable options like our Bang Bang Salmon Bites, a creamy and satisfying Creamy Salmon Pasta, and the distinctly flavorful Salmon New Orleans. Each recipe offers a unique twist on this beloved fish!
Imagine tender, succulent salmon, exquisitely seasoned and baked, then enveloped in an easy-to-make, rich, and velvety Cajun honey butter sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to tantalize your palate and leave you, and your guests, utterly delighted. The thick, smooth glaze clings beautifully to each flaky piece of fish, imparting a glossy sheen and deep, complex flavors reminiscent of a premium seafood boil sauce. It’s a dish so good, you’ll find yourself eagerly licking the plate clean!
Whether you’re planning a swift weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion that calls for something truly impressive yet simple, this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is your ideal solution. Its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes ensures every forkful is a celebration of flavor, making your taste buds dance with joy. Get ready to elevate your home cooking with this unforgettable recipe!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Cajun Salmon Recipe
- Key Ingredients for Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
- Crafting the Perfect Cajun Honey Butter Sauce
- Simple Ingredient Substitutions
- Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon
- Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking
- Alternative Cooking Methods
- What to Serve with Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
- Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- More Irresistible Cajun Recipes
- Full Cajun Honey Butter Salmon Recipe Card
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon Recipe
This isn’t just another salmon recipe; it’s a culinary revelation that combines ease, flavor, and nutrition into one magnificent dish. Here’s why this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:
- Incredibly Quick and Effortless! Imagine a gourmet-quality meal ready on your table in under 30 minutes! This recipe truly shines in its simplicity. With the optional, yet highly recommended, inclusion of fresh asparagus directly on the sheet pan, you can create a perfectly balanced, wholesome dinner with minimal effort and cleanup. It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Explosively Flavorful! If you appreciate a dish with depth and character, this recipe delivers. Our generous application of homemade Cajun seasoning (or your favorite store-bought blend) imparts a bold, aromatic kick that forms the foundation of this dish. But we don’t stop there! The magnificent honey butter sauce takes the flavor profile to another level, featuring bright, citrusy notes from fresh lemon juice, the zesty tang of Dijon mustard, and a customizable touch of heat from your favorite hot sauce. Every bite is a complex symphony of savory, spicy, and sweet.
- Powerfully Nutritious! Salmon is celebrated as one of nature’s superfoods, and for good reason! It’s an exceptional source of high-quality protein, essential healthy fats, and an abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Incorporating this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon into your diet is an easy and delicious way to ensure you’re nourishing your body with vital nutrients, making it a smart and wholesome meal choice for the entire family.
Key Ingredients for Crafting Your Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
The success of any remarkable dish begins with quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this irresistible Cajun Honey Butter Salmon, along with tips for selecting the best components.
For precise measurements and quantities, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card at the end of this article.
- Salmon Fillets: The star of our dish! You can opt for either fresh or frozen salmon fillets. If using frozen, ensure they are fully defrosted before preparation. For optimal texture and superior flavor, we highly recommend choosing wild-caught salmon over farm-raised varieties. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch.
- Mayonnaise: This creamy, rich ingredient serves as an excellent base for the salmon marinade. It not only contributes to the fish’s moistness during baking but also helps the Cajun seasoning adhere beautifully to the fillets, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart and soul of the “Cajun” flavor! This dynamic spice blend typically includes paprika, fiery cayenne pepper, black pepper, a mix of dried herbs (like oregano and thyme), garlic powder, and onion powder. While many excellent store-bought options exist, consider making your own homemade Cajun seasoning blend for a truly authentic and customizable taste.
- Garlic Powder: A staple in savory cooking, garlic powder enhances the overall umami and aromatic notes of the salmon, complementing the Cajun spices perfectly.
- Honey: Beyond its natural sweetness, honey acts as a fantastic binding agent in the marinade, helping to create that desirable sticky glaze. It’s crucial for balancing the heat from the Cajun seasoning.
- Lemon Juice (for marinade): Freshly squeezed lemon juice introduces a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the salmon and savory spices. It brightens the flavor profile and adds a refreshing zest.
- Asparagus (Optional): For a convenient and healthy sheet pan meal, roasting asparagus alongside your salmon is a brilliant choice. It adds vibrant color, a delicate earthy flavor, and a boost of nutrients. Fresh green beans or broccoli florets can also be used.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil helps achieve a beautifully crispy, golden exterior on both the salmon and asparagus during roasting, while also contributing healthy fats.
Crafting the Perfect Cajun Honey Butter Sauce
The velvety, glossy sauce is what truly elevates this dish from great to unforgettable. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating its complex and addictive flavor profile:
- Salted Butter: The luxurious foundation of our sauce. Butter provides incredible richness and mouthfeel. If using unsalted butter, remember to taste and adjust the salt content accordingly to achieve perfect seasoning.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced or finely diced fresh garlic is non-negotiable here. It infuses the butter with an irresistible aromatic depth that is central to the sauce’s character.
- Cajun Seasoning (for sauce): Yes, we’re doubling down on that incredible Cajun flavor! Adding it to the sauce amplifies the warmth and spice, ensuring a consistent and robust taste throughout the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love an extra kick, red pepper flakes provide a delightful burst of heat and visual appeal. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Honey (for sauce): More sticky honey brings natural sweetness that elegantly balances the savory and spicy elements. It’s also key to achieving that luscious, thick texture that beautifully clings to the salmon. Feel free to experiment with spicy honey if you want to intensify the heat!
- Dijon Mustard: This sharp, tangy condiment introduces a sophisticated mustard undertone, adding another layer of complexity and a subtle piquancy that complements the other flavors.
- Hot Sauce: Your favorite hot sauce is invited to the party! It delivers a customizable punch of spicy flavor and acidity, making the sauce truly your own.
- Lemon Juice (for sauce): Another splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens and refreshes the entire sauce. Its acidity is essential for cutting through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced and vibrant glaze.
- Mayonnaise (for sauce): A small amount of mayo in the sauce contributes to its smooth, emulsified consistency, giving it a luxurious, velvety finish.
Simple Ingredient Substitutions to Customize Your Meal
Flexibility is key in the kitchen! While this recipe is perfect as is, here are some easy substitutions to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Vegetables: Instead of asparagus, feel free to swap in other quick-cooking vegetables like fresh green beans, Brussels sprouts (halved), or even broccoli florets. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the salmon.
- Lemon Juice: If lemons aren’t available, you can substitute the lemon juice with an equal amount of fresh lime juice for a slightly different citrusy note, or use apple cider vinegar for its bright tang.
- Mayonnaise: For a lighter or dairy-free alternative, replace the mayonnaise in both the marinade and the sauce with plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a subtle tang, or use sour cream for a richer texture.
- Honey: Maple syrup can be used as a 1:1 substitute for honey, offering a slightly different, yet equally delicious, sweetness.
- Cajun Seasoning: If you’re out of Cajun seasoning, a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper will work as a good approximation.
Expert Pro Tips for Achieving Perfect Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Elevate your cooking from good to gourmet with these essential tips designed to ensure your Cajun Honey Butter Salmon turns out impeccably tender, flavorful, and beautifully glazed every time.
- Always Pat Your Salmon Dry: This step is crucial for flavor adhesion and achieving a beautiful sear or crispy skin. Before applying any marinade or seasoning, use paper towels to thoroughly pat down the surface of your salmon fillets. Removing excess moisture allows the marinade to stick better and promotes a more even, golden-brown crust.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While this recipe is quick, allowing the salmon to marinate for a little extra time can significantly deepen its flavor. If your schedule permits, marinate the seasoned salmon in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. For an even more profound infusion of flavors, you can marinate the salmon for up to 4 hours. Avoid marinating for longer than that, as the acidity from the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the fish.
- Preheat Your Oven Thoroughly: Patience is a virtue when it comes to baking! Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the salmon inside. A hot oven allows the fish to cook evenly from the start, locking in moisture and helping to create that desirable crispy exterior, preventing a soggy or undercooked result.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks relatively quickly, and overcooking can lead to dry, tough fish. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness.
- Broil for that Perfect Glaze: The final broiling step is essential for caramelizing the honey butter glaze and giving it that irresistible golden-brown, slightly crispy finish. Keep a close eye on it during this stage, as broilers can vary in intensity, and the glaze can go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Your Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Follow these clear, easy-to-understand steps to create a delicious and visually appealing Cajun Honey Butter Salmon meal right in your own kitchen.
- Step 1: Prepare and Preheat. Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F (220°C). While the oven heats, thoroughly pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This ensures the marinade adheres properly. Trim the tough, woody ends off your asparagus stalks. Arrange both the salmon and asparagus evenly on a large sheet pan. Lightly season everything with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: Marinate the Salmon. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, uniform marinade. Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, generously spread this flavorful marinade all over the top and sides of each salmon fillet.
- Step 3: Season and Bake Vegetables. Drizzle the trimmed asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the asparagus evenly. Place the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The asparagus should be tender-crisp. (Image 1 – showing baked salmon and asparagus on a sheet pan)
- Step 4: Start the Honey Butter Sauce. While your salmon and asparagus are baking, it’s time to prepare the star sauce! In a medium-sized saucepan, melt ½ cup of salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the finely diced fresh garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and slightly softened but not browned.
- Step 5: Build the Sauce Layers. Stir in 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the saucepan with the garlic butter. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. Next, pour in ⅓ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 3 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 6: Finish the Sauce. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and ½ tablespoon of mayonnaise. Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Set the sauce aside to cool slightly while the salmon finishes cooking. (Image 2 – showing Cajun Honey Butter Sauce in a saucepan)
- Step 7: Glaze and Broil. Once the salmon is finished baking, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Evenly brush about half of the prepared Cajun honey butter glaze over the cooked salmon fillets. Return the pan to the oven and broil for 1-3 minutes. Watch closely! The goal is for the glaze to caramelize and become golden brown and slightly bubbly.
- Step 8: Serve and Garnish. Remove the sheet pan from the oven once the glaze is caramelized. Pour the remainder of the warm Cajun honey butter sauce over the broiled salmon and asparagus. For an added touch of freshness and vibrant color, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving immediately. Enjoy your perfectly crafted Cajun Honey Butter Salmon! (Image 3 – showing Cajun Honey Butter Salmon on a fork)
Explore Alternative Cooking Methods for Your Salmon
While baking on a sheet pan offers incredible convenience, this versatile Cajun Honey Butter Salmon recipe can be adapted to several other popular cooking methods, each yielding slightly different textures and flavors. Here’s how you can prepare it:
- Pan-Seared Salmon: For a deliciously crispy skin, pan-searing is an excellent choice. Heat a small amount of olive oil and a pat of butter in a non-stick skillet or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes until a beautiful crust forms, then flip and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Prepare the Cajun honey butter sauce in a separate saucepan as instructed in the recipe card, and drizzle over the cooked salmon before serving.
- Grilling the Salmon: Grilling imparts a wonderful smoky flavor to the salmon. Prepare the salmon fillets with the Cajun mayonnaise marinade as instructed. Preheat your grill (a grill pan works well indoors too) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon directly on the grill and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish is flaky. Brush with the prepared Cajun honey butter sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, or drizzle generously after it comes off the grill.
- Air Fryer Method: The air fryer is fantastic for quick cooking and achieving a lovely crispy exterior. Prepare the salmon fillets with the marinade as instructed. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated salmon in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 7-10 minutes. Halfway through, brush the salmon with about half of the Cajun honey butter sauce. Continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through, caramelized, and saucy.
What to Serve with Your Delectable Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
This incredibly flavorful Cajun Honey Butter Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complement its spicy-sweet profile:
I personally adore the simplicity and convenience of a sheet pan meal, which is why I often include roasted asparagus directly on the baking sheet when preparing this salmon. However, the possibilities for delightful pairings are truly endless:
- Pasta Dishes: For a heartier meal, consider serving your salmon alongside a creamy pasta. It would be exquisite with my Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta, or even a simple garlic butter pasta to let the salmon shine. For a more direct pairing, my Cajun Salmon Pasta recipe offers similar flavors.
- Rice Varieties: Classic rice is always a winner! Serve it with fluffy white rice, brown rice for added fiber, or get adventurous with my savory Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. The spiced rice will perfectly soak up the honey butter sauce.
- Grits: For an authentic Southern touch, prepare the creamy grits from my Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe and serve the Cajun Honey Butter Salmon right on top. The contrasting textures and complementary flavors are truly magnificent.
- Potatoes: Potatoes offer comforting and versatile options. My Red Skin Mashed Potatoes would be a wonderfully rich accompaniment. Alternatively, consider crispy roasted sweet potatoes (try these smashed sweet potatoes) for a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- Lighter Options: If you prefer something lighter, serve the salmon with fluffy cauliflower rice, which is a great low-carb alternative. A crisp and refreshing fresh house salad with a light vinaigrette would also cut through the richness of the salmon and sauce beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Your Cajun Honey Butter Salmon Leftovers
While Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store any leftovers to savor later. Properly stored, the flavors remain delicious, though the texture might change slightly. Here’s how to handle them:
- Storage: Allow the cooked salmon to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer the salmon fillets (and any leftover sauce separately, if desired) to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and consume within 3 days for the best quality and safety.
- Reheating: To maintain the salmon’s tender texture and potentially restore some crispness, I highly recommend reheating it in an air fryer or oven rather than a microwave.
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon fillets in the basket and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until just heated through. This method helps to crisp up the exterior without drying out the interior.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the salmon on a low setting in short bursts (30 seconds at a time) until just warmed, to prevent it from becoming tough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Our incredible Cajun honey butter sauce is a harmonious blend of rich salted butter, aromatic fresh garlic, bold Cajun seasoning, a kick of red pepper flakes, natural sweetness from honey, the zesty tang of Dijon mustard, your preferred hot sauce for heat, bright lemon juice for acidity, and a touch of mayonnaise for a smooth, velvety consistency. This unique combination creates a truly mouthwatering glaze that is savory, spicy, and perfectly sweet.
The prepared Cajun honey butter sauce can be stored in an airtight container or a sealed mason jar in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. It’s excellent for making ahead! When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through and smooth. This versatile sauce is fantastic not only for salmon but also for shrimp, chicken, and a variety of roasted vegetables.
Cajun seasoning is a vibrant and robust spice blend known for its distinctive flavor. While specific recipes can vary, it typically includes key spices such as paprika (often smoked for depth), fiery cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme and oregano. This combination delivers a bold flavor profile that balances smokiness, heat, and savory herbal notes, making it incredibly versatile in many dishes.
For this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon recipe, it is definitely best to bake the salmon uncovered. Baking uncovered allows the hot air to circulate freely around the fillets, which is essential for achieving a desirable crispy skin and a beautifully caramelized glaze, especially during the final broiling step. Covering the salmon with aluminum foil would steam the fish, preventing the skin from crisping and the glaze from caramelizing properly.
The best way to determine if salmon is fully cooked is by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part. Visually, cooked salmon will turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. It will transition from a translucent, raw appearance to a more solid, pink color. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.
Discover More Irresistible Cajun-Inspired Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine from this salmon recipe, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delicious dishes that bring the spirit and spice of Louisiana cooking straight to your table.
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Cajun Seafood Boil Recipe with Garlic Butter Sauce
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Creamy Cajun Orzo with Sausage
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Cajun Salmon Pasta
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Easy Cajun Chicken and Rice
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If you try this incredible Cajun Honey Butter Salmon recipe, please consider leaving a star rating on the recipe card below and sharing your thoughts in the comments section! Your feedback is invaluable. You can also tag @BritneyBreaksBread on Instagram and use the hashtag #britneybreaksbread so I can celebrate your beautiful culinary creations!
Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Equipment
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Sheet Pan
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Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Salmon, (about 4 salmon fillets)
- 3 tbsps Mayo
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tbsps Honey
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 bunches Asparagus, (optional)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Cajun Honey Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup Salted Butter
- 4 cloves Garlic, (diced finely)
- 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/3 cup Honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 3 tbsp Hot Sauce
- 2 tbsps Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tbsp Mayo
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220°C). Pat salmon dry with a paper towel. Trim the hard ends off of the asparagus and place both salmon and asparagus onto a sheet pan. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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In a small bowl, mix together mayo, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and 2 tbsps honey to create the salmon marinade. Use a brush or spoon to spread this marinade generously all over the salmon fillets.
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Drizzle olive oil and 1 tbsp lemon juice on top of the asparagus. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
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While the salmon is cooking, prepare the Cajun honey butter sauce. Add butter to a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add diced garlic and cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 2 tsp Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
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Pour the remaining honey (1/3 cup), Dijon mustard, and hot sauce into the saucepan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon). Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsps lemon juice and 1/2 tbsp mayo. Whisk together until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
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Once the salmon is finished cooking, remove it from the oven. Brush half of the prepared glaze on top of the salmon. Broil for 1-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the glaze is golden brown and caramelized.
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Pour the remainder of the sauce on top of the salmon and asparagus. Serve immediately, garnished with some fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 47g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 160mg
Sodium: 688mg
Potassium: 1434mg
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 37g
Vitamin A: 3937IU
Vitamin C: 25mg
Calcium: 103mg
Iron: 7mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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