How to Reheat Salmon (Without Drying It)

Honey glazed salmon is a fantastic meal, but what about leftovers? Don't worry, you can enjoy that sweet, sticky, garlicky goodness all over again! The key to reheating salmon is avoiding dryness and ensuring the glaze doesn't burn. Here's the best way to do it.

Jump to:

• How to Reheat Salmon
• How to Get a Delicious Finish When Reheating
• Recipe Variations
• Creative Leftover Uses
• Beyond Reheating

How to Reheat Salmon

1 The Oven (Best for Optimal Results)

• Preheat: Set your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135 °C). A gentle heat helps ensure the salmon doesn't dry out.
• Prep the Salmon: Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Revive the Glaze: Here's the key to keeping your salmon moist!
  • Option 1: Brush the salmon lightly with any reserved honey glaze from the original cooking.
  • Option 2: Add a splash of water for extra moisture.
  • Option 3: Drizzle with a little olive oil to help prevent the salmon from drying out.
• Cover: Loosely cover the salmon with foil. This creates a slightly steamy environment, keeping the fish moist during reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. To ensure perfect doneness, check the internal temperature with a thermometer – it should reach 125-130°F (50-55°C).

Additional Tips:

• Start Cold: For even reheating, let your salmon come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
• Check Early: Since ovens and salmon portions vary, start checking for doneness around the 5-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

2 Stovetop or Skillet (Quick Option)

• Pan Choice: Opt for a nonstick skillet for easy release and cleanup.
• Gentle Heat: Use low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out or the glaze from burning.
• Add Moisture: A small splash of water (a couple of tablespoons) or a drizzle of olive oil in the pan creates a bit of steam and helps keep the salmon moist.
• Warm Carefully: Place salmon skin-side down (if skin-on) and heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until gently warmed through. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the fillet.
• Don't Overcrowd: If reheating multiple pieces, you might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

Important Reminders:

• Avoid Overcooking: Reheat just until the salmon is warmed – overcooked fish becomes dry and loses its delicious flakiness.
• Visual Cues: If you don't have a thermometer, watch for the edges of the salmon to become slightly more opaque, and the center to be warm.

Extra Tip: For a slightly crispier texture, finish the salmon skin-side up under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes after reheating on the stove. Caution: Watch closely to prevent burning!

3 Air Fryer (Crispy Option)

• Preheat: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps create a slightly crispy texture on the salmon.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Place salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between them for optimal airflow and even crisping. You may need to work in batches.
• Reheat: Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Check for doneness around the 3-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
• Optional Glaze Boost: If desired, brush the salmon lightly with a bit of extra honey glaze halfway through the cooking time for extra shine and flavor.

Extra Tips on How to Warm Up Salmon:

• Skin-On Success: This method works particularly well for salmon with the skin on, as it helps the skin get extra crispy.
• Check Early: Air fryer models and portion sizes vary, so start checking your salmon for doneness a little before the suggested time.
• Serving Idea: Flake reheated air fryer salmon over a salad for a healthy and flavorful lunch option.

4 Can You Reheat Salmon in the Microwave?

Microwaves can dry out salmon quickly and make the glaze rubbery. It's best to use one of the methods above for optimal flavor and texture.

While we don't recommend microwaving fish for the best results, we understand sometimes you need a quick solution. If you must use a microwave, here's how to minimize the damage:

• Use a Cover: A microwave-safe cover traps steam, helping prevent dryness.
• Low and Slow: Set the microwave to 30-40% power and heat in 30-second bursts, flipping the fish each time for even heating.
• Best for Certain Dishes: Baked, stewed, or sautéed fish often reheat better in the microwave than delicate fillets.

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Extra Tips

• Room Temperature Start: Let your leftover salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before reheating. This helps it warm more evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking.
• Glaze Boost: If the glaze has thickened significantly in the refrigerator, thin it down with a touch of hot water before brushing it onto the salmon for reheating.

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How to Get a Delicious Finish When Reheating

Reheat your salmon and achieve a delicious finish with these simple methods. We'll cover how to get crispy skin, revive the glaze using the broiler (or your preferred method), and how to know when it's perfectly done without overcooking.

• The Importance of Skin: If your salmon has the skin on, reheat it skin-side down in a pan for the crispiest results. Briefly place it skin-side up under the broiler for extra crispness at the end (watch closely to avoid burning!).
• Broiler Option (For a Quick Finish): If you want a slightly caramelized glaze and a bit of crispiness on the salmon, finish it off with a 1-2 minute blast under a preheated broiler after using your preferred reheating method. Caution: Watch it like a hawk to prevent burning.

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Recipe Variations

Spice Things Up:

• Feeling a little fiery? Kick up the heat on your leftover salmon by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a touch of sriracha or sambal oelek while it reheats.
• Craving bolder flavors? Sauté some chopped jalapenos or sprinkle chili powder along with the salmon for an extra punch.

Asian Adventure:

• Did your original salmon dish have an Asian flair? Revive those flavors with a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving. A few sliced scallions add a vibrant touch!

Mediterranean Escape:

• Dreaming of sun-drenched flavors? Crumble some feta, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of dried oregano over your reheated salmon for a taste of the Mediterranean. Pair it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a fresh, light meal.

Southwest Fiesta:

• In the mood for something south-of-the-border? Give your salmon a quick warm-up with a spoonful of your favorite salsa or a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Warm some tortillas, and you've got yourself easy and delicious salmon tacos.

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Creative Leftover Uses

• Flake your leftover honey glazed salmon and toss it into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette. For an extra flavor boost, make a honey-lemon dressing.
• Transform your salmon into a delicious fried rice dish! Sauté onions and garlic, then add the flaked salmon, frozen peas, and carrots. Stir in cooked rice, a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and scramble an egg or two right in the pan.
• Create a quick and flavorful salmon pasta by combining flaked salmon with cooked pasta, a creamy lemon sauce, chopped fresh dill, and a handful of capers.
• Make easy salmon quesadillas! Combine your flaked salmon with shredded cheese, salsa, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Warm in a tortilla for a cheesy, satisfying treat.

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Beyond Reheating

• Freezing Leftovers (If Applicable): Yes, you can often freeze leftover honey glazed salmon! For the best results, make sure it's fully cooked before freezing.
• Here's how:
  • Portion Control: Divide salmon into individual portions for easier thawing and reheating.
  • Wrap Tightly: Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then seal in an airtight freezer bag or container.
  • Freeze & Label: Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using your preferred method.

Pasta Perfection:

• Creamy Lemon Sauce Options: Try a simple Alfredo sauce, or whisk together cream cheese, milk, Parmesan, lemon juice, and a touch of garlic powder for a quick and flavorful sauce.
• Capers and Beyond: Add other briny elements like chopped olives or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.

Quesadilla Tips:

• Cheese Choices: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend all melt beautifully.
• Spice It Up: Mix a little chili powder or adobo seasoning from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce into the cheese mixture for heat.
• Toppings Galore: Add sliced avocado, sour cream, or a dollop of your favorite hot sauce after cooking.