Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice: A Family Favorite
Growing up in a home where the kitchen was the heart of the house, I quickly learned that some of the best family memories are made around a dinner table. One of my favorite dishes to prepare for my family is the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice. It’s one of those meals that makes everyone feel at home, no matter where they are. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the warmth from the oven filled the house with the most inviting aromas. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, encouraging laughter, storytelling, and the kind of comfort that only food can provide.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Family-Friendly
This dish is a perfect balance of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults. The sweet honey glaze on the salmon coupled with the savory fried rice is a delightful combination that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect solution for families seeking a meal that satisfies diverse palates without compromising on taste or nutritional value.
Quick and Easy
With just 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight family dinner. You can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in under an hour! The simplicity of this recipe does not detract from its elegance, making it a great option for dinner parties or family gatherings where time might be limited.
Healthy and Nutritious
Featuring salmon and shrimp, both rich in omega-3 fatty acids, along with a variety of vegetables, this meal is as nutritious as it is tasty. Omega-3s are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function. The addition of colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers ensures a variety of vitamins and minerals with each bite, making this dish a well-rounded choice for health-conscious families.
Adaptable
You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s taste. If you have picky eaters, simply omit the jalapeños, or add extra for those who love a kick. This adaptability makes it a versatile recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire, ready to be tweaked for different occasions or dietary preferences.
Comfort Food with a Twist
This dish combines the familiarity of fried rice with the elegance of glazed salmon, creating a unique culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of meal that encourages you to try new things while still providing the warmth and satisfaction of a classic family dinner.
The Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for searing)
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil for mild heat
For the Shrimp:
- 10–12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
For the Veggie Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked cold rice (preferably jasmine or day-old rice)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup mixed bell peppers (red and yellow, diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for richness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
- Ensure your rice is cold and dry to prevent clumping.
- Chop all vegetables and set aside.
- Pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels.
Cook the Salmon
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the salmon skin-side down first for 3–4 minutes, then flip.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the salmon and cook another 3–4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the top until the fish is caramelized and glossy.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Tip: The slightly sticky, deep amber glaze comes from letting the honey caramelize with the soy and garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Cook the Shrimp
- In the same pan, add a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Add shrimp seasoned with garlic powder, soy sauce, paprika, and black pepper.
- Sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden.
- Remove shrimp and set aside with the salmon.
Make the Fried Rice
- In a large wok or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.
- Add onions, carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
- Push the veggies to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just cooked.
- Add cold rice, breaking up clumps with your spatula.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to coat every grain evenly.
- Toss in the cooked shrimp and sliced jalapeños. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until everything is evenly combined and the rice takes on a deep brown color.
Assemble the Plate
- Serve a generous portion of shrimp & veggie fried rice on a large plate.
- Place the glazed salmon fillet on top or to the side.
- Spoon a little of the honey garlic glaze from the pan over the salmon and shrimp.
- Garnish with extra jalapeño slices and chopped green onions for a fresh, spicy finish.
Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet or non-stick pan
- Wok or deep skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Salmon
A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. It also provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients. The fatty texture of salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory glaze, creating a delectable taste experience.
Shrimp
Low in calories but high in protein, shrimp is a fantastic addition to this meal, adding a different texture and flavor. It’s also a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that helps fight inflammation.
Soy Sauce
Adds a salty umami depth that enhances the dish overall. This classic ingredient balances the sweetness of the honey and the glaze, making the salmon and shrimp taste even more savory.
Honey
Provides a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating a delicious glaze for the salmon. Honey is not only a sweetener but also helps in caramelizing the glaze, adding a beautiful sheen to the salmon.
Vegetables
Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers not only add color but are packed with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for your health. They provide fiber, which aids digestion, and their vibrant colors indicate a range of antioxidants.
What to Serve With This Dish
This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your dinner table, consider these options:
Green Salad
A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Use mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side that complements the main course.
Miso Soup
Adds a comforting, warm element to your meal. Check out my Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed for a perfect pairing. The umami-rich broth will harmonize with the flavors of the fried rice and salmon.
Steamed Dumplings
For a little extra indulgence, serve with a side of steamed dumplings. My recipe for Pork and Chive Dumplings is a great choice! The dumplings add a fun, interactive element to the meal, perfect for family dinners.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the salmon, shrimp, and rice separate, if possible, to maintain their textures. This separation helps prevent the rice from absorbing too much moisture from the seafood.
Reheating
Reheat the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Microwave the salmon and shrimp separately, covered, for a minute or two until just heated through to avoid overcooking. This method keeps the salmon moist and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried rice for up to a month. However, I recommend enjoying the salmon and shrimp fresh as they can become rubbery when frozen and reheated. If you do choose to freeze the rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Cooking is all about bringing people together, and this Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice does just that. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will surely become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. So gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and enjoy the meal. Happy cooking!
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of salmon, try using chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will absorb the glaze beautifully.
- Spice Variations: Consider adding a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes to the glaze for an extra kick.
- Rice Tips: Always use day-old rice for fried rice to prevent it from becoming mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for a few hours before using.
- Garnish Options: Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime can add a burst of freshness to the dish.
By incorporating these tips and ideas, this dish can transform into something new every time you make it. Whether you’re sticking to the tried-and-true recipe or putting your spin on it, the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice is sure to delight your family and friends for years to come.
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Shrimp & Veggie Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make sure your rice is cold and dry to prevent clumping.
- Chop all vegetables and set aside.
- Pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the salmon skin-side down first for 3–4 minutes, then flip.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the salmon and cook another 3–4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the top until the fish is caramelized and glossy.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Add shrimp seasoned with garlic powder, soy sauce, paprika, and black pepper.
- Sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden.
- Remove shrimp and set aside with the salmon.
- In a large wok or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.
- Add onions, carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
- Push the veggies to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just cooked.
- Add cold rice, breaking up clumps with your spatula.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to coat every grain evenly.
- Toss in the cooked shrimp and sliced jalapeños. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until everything is evenly combined and the rice takes on a deep brown color.
- Serve a generous portion of shrimp & veggie fried rice on a large plate.
- Place the glazed salmon fillet on top or to the side.
- Spoon a little of the honey garlic glaze from the pan over the salmon and shrimp.
- Garnish with extra jalapeño slices and chopped green onions for a fresh, spicy finish.