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Honey Garlic Butter Salmon Juicy and Flavorful Dish

by on August 3, 2025

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Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious dinner? Honey Garlic Butter Salmon is the perfect dish. It’s juicy, full of flavor, and easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special. In this post, I will guide you through each step, share tips to make it perfect, and offer ideas for serving. Let’s dive into the world of sweet and savory salmon!

To craft the perfect honey garlic butter salmon, you will need a few simple yet tasty ingredients. Here’s what you should gather: - 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) - 1/4 cup honey - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish juicy and flavorful. The salmon fillets form the base, offering rich and flaky meat. Honey gives sweetness, while the butter adds a creamy texture. Garlic brings a punch of flavor, complemented by soy sauce and Dijon mustard for depth. Fresh ginger adds warmth, and salt and pepper balance it all. Don’t forget the parsley and lemon! They add freshness and brightness to every bite. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, prepare your salmon fillets. Make sure they are thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp up. Next, mince the garlic. Use a sharp knife for this task. Chop it finely until it’s almost a paste. This releases its strong flavor into the dish. Now, grate the fresh ginger. Use a microplane for best results. This adds a nice zing to the sauce. Let’s start cooking! Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute. You want it fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly. Remove it from heat and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy later. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Season them with salt and pepper. Brush the honey garlic butter mixture over each fillet. Be generous, but save some sauce for later. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It should flake easily with a fork when done. For a nice finish, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes. This caramelizes the top and adds flavor. Once out of the oven, brush on more honey garlic butter sauce if you like. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds brightness to the dish, making it extra tasty. How do I check doneness? To check if salmon is done, look for a few signs. The fish should be opaque and firm. Use a fork to see if it flakes easily. If it does, it’s ready. A food thermometer is great too. Aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). How do I avoid dry salmon? To keep salmon juicy, don’t overcook it. Baking for 12-15 minutes usually works well. Brush it with honey garlic butter before cooking. Adding some butter on top helps lock in moisture. What other ingredients can I use? You can add flavors like red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme work nicely too. For a tangy touch, try adding lemon zest. How do I adjust sweetness and seasoning? If you want it sweeter, add more honey. For a salty punch, use extra soy sauce. Always taste the sauce before you pour it on the salmon. You can tweak it to your liking. What are some alternative cooking methods? You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Just preheat the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. You can also pan-sear it on the stove for a crispy skin. What’s the difference between grilling and baking? Baking gives you a soft, tender fish. Grilling adds a nice char and flavor. Both methods work well. Choose based on your taste or the equipment you have available. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that have a bright color and smell fresh to ensure the best flavor and texture. Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when cooked to a medium doneness; it should flake easily but still be moist. Use a meat thermometer for precision. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the honey garlic butter by adding more honey or soy sauce to suit your taste. Broil for Extra Flavor: Broiling the salmon for the last few minutes adds a delicious caramelized finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. {{image_2}} You can choose between wild-caught and farmed salmon. Wild-caught salmon has a richer taste and firmer texture. It is often preferred for its health benefits. Farmed salmon is usually milder and more affordable. It is easier to find in stores. You can also decide on skin-on or skinless salmon. Skin-on salmon has a nice crispy texture when cooked. It helps keep the fish moist during baking. Skinless salmon cooks faster, making it a great choice for quick meals. You can spice up your honey garlic butter salmon. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This adds heat and depth to the dish. You can also try a citrus-infused version. Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce. This adds freshness and brightens the flavors. Pair your salmon with tasty side dishes. Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad work well. These sides add color and nutrition to your plate. For meal prep ideas, cook extra salmon for later. You can store it in the fridge for quick lunches. A salmon salad or wrap makes a great next-day meal. To keep your honey garlic butter salmon fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the salmon in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and flavors intact. It’s best to eat the salmon within three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze the salmon. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy your dish for up to three months. When you are ready to eat leftovers, reheating correctly makes a big difference. The best way to reheat salmon is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the salmon moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Honey garlic salmon lasts in the fridge for about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. To tell if the salmon has gone bad, look for color changes or a sour smell. If it smells off or looks dull, it's best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup works well. You can also try agave nectar. Both options give a sweet flavor. They match nicely with the butter and garlic. Adjust the amount to your taste. Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place it in the fridge overnight or use cold water. This helps the salmon cook evenly. Cooking time may change slightly, so keep an eye on it. Eating undercooked salmon can be risky. It might contain harmful bacteria or parasites. I recommend cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and flaky. To make honey garlic butter salmon gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari. Tamari is a great gluten-free choice. You can also find gluten-free soy sauce at stores. Just check the label for safety. Honey garlic butter salmon tastes great with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans - Rice or quinoa for a hearty base - A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette - Mashed potatoes for a comfort food feel These sides complement the salmon's sweet and savory flavors. This blog post covered how to cook a delicious honey garlic salmon. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips to get it just right. Remember, freshness matters, and storing leftovers properly keeps them tasty. Feel free to try variations and enjoy different flavors. Cooking can be fun and easy! Experiment with side dishes to make meals unique. Enjoy your cooking adventure with honey garlic salmon!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet honey perfectly balances the savory garlic and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the salmon’s natural taste.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
  3. Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but also a great option for a healthy meal.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

To craft the perfect honey garlic butter salmon, you will need a few simple yet tasty ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

– 1/4 cup honey

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish juicy and flavorful. The salmon fillets form the base, offering rich and flaky meat. Honey gives sweetness, while the butter adds a creamy texture. Garlic brings a punch of flavor, complemented by soy sauce and Dijon mustard for depth. Fresh ginger adds warmth, and salt and pepper balance it all. Don’t forget the parsley and lemon! They add freshness and brightness to every bite.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

First, prepare your salmon fillets. Make sure they are thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp up.

Next, mince the garlic. Use a sharp knife for this task. Chop it finely until it’s almost a paste. This releases its strong flavor into the dish.

Now, grate the fresh ginger. Use a microplane for best results. This adds a nice zing to the sauce.

Cooking Process

Let’s start cooking! Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute. You want it fragrant but not browned.

Stir in the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly. Remove it from heat and set it aside.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy later.

Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Season them with salt and pepper.

Brush the honey garlic butter mixture over each fillet. Be generous, but save some sauce for later.

Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It should flake easily with a fork when done.

Final Touches

For a nice finish, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes. This caramelizes the top and adds flavor.

Once out of the oven, brush on more honey garlic butter sauce if you like.

Garnish with fresh parsley for color and taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds brightness to the dish, making it extra tasty.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Salmon

How do I check doneness?

To check if salmon is done, look for a few signs. The fish should be opaque and firm. Use a fork to see if it flakes easily. If it does, it’s ready. A food thermometer is great too. Aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

How do I avoid dry salmon?

To keep salmon juicy, don’t overcook it. Baking for 12-15 minutes usually works well. Brush it with honey garlic butter before cooking. Adding some butter on top helps lock in moisture.

Enhancing Flavor

What other ingredients can I use?

You can add flavors like red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme work nicely too. For a tangy touch, try adding lemon zest.

How do I adjust sweetness and seasoning?

If you want it sweeter, add more honey. For a salty punch, use extra soy sauce. Always taste the sauce before you pour it on the salmon. You can tweak it to your liking.

Cooking Techniques

What are some alternative cooking methods?

You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Just preheat the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. You can also pan-sear it on the stove for a crispy skin.

What’s the difference between grilling and baking?

Baking gives you a soft, tender fish. Grilling adds a nice char and flavor. Both methods work well. Choose based on your taste or the equipment you have available.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that have a bright color and smell fresh to ensure the best flavor and texture.
  2. Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when cooked to a medium doneness; it should flake easily but still be moist. Use a meat thermometer for precision.
  3. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the honey garlic butter by adding more honey or soy sauce to suit your taste.
  4. Broil for Extra Flavor: Broiling the salmon for the last few minutes adds a delicious caramelized finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Variations

Different Salmons

You can choose between wild-caught and farmed salmon. Wild-caught salmon has a richer taste and firmer texture. It is often preferred for its health benefits. Farmed salmon is usually milder and more affordable. It is easier to find in stores.

You can also decide on skin-on or skinless salmon. Skin-on salmon has a nice crispy texture when cooked. It helps keep the fish moist during baking. Skinless salmon cooks faster, making it a great choice for quick meals.

Flavor Variations

You can spice up your honey garlic butter salmon. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This adds heat and depth to the dish. You can also try a citrus-infused version. Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce. This adds freshness and brightens the flavors.

Serving Options

Pair your salmon with tasty side dishes. Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad work well. These sides add color and nutrition to your plate. For meal prep ideas, cook extra salmon for later. You can store it in the fridge for quick lunches. A salmon salad or wrap makes a great next-day meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your honey garlic butter salmon fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the salmon in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and flavors intact. It’s best to eat the salmon within three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze the salmon. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy your dish for up to three months.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to eat leftovers, reheating correctly makes a big difference. The best way to reheat salmon is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the salmon moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Shelf Life

Honey garlic salmon lasts in the fridge for about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. To tell if the salmon has gone bad, look for color changes or a sour smell. If it smells off or looks dull, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

FAQs

What can I substitute for honey?

If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup works well. You can also try agave nectar. Both options give a sweet flavor. They match nicely with the butter and garlic. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place it in the fridge overnight or use cold water. This helps the salmon cook evenly. Cooking time may change slightly, so keep an eye on it.

Is it safe to eat undercooked salmon?

Eating undercooked salmon can be risky. It might contain harmful bacteria or parasites. I recommend cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and flaky.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make honey garlic butter salmon gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari. Tamari is a great gluten-free choice. You can also find gluten-free soy sauce at stores. Just check the label for safety.

What sides pair well with honey garlic butter salmon?

Honey garlic butter salmon tastes great with many sides. Here are a few ideas:

– Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans

– Rice or quinoa for a hearty base

– A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette

– Mashed potatoes for a comfort food feel

These sides complement the salmon’s sweet and savory flavors.

This blog post covered how to cook a delicious honey garlic salmon. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips to get it just right. Remember, freshness matters, and storing leftovers properly keeps them tasty. Feel free to try variations and enjoy different flavors. Cooking can be fun and easy! Experiment with side dishes to make meals unique. Enjoy your cooking adventure with honey garlic salmo

To craft the perfect honey garlic butter salmon, you will need a few simple yet tasty ingredients. Here’s what you should gather: - 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) - 1/4 cup honey - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish juicy and flavorful. The salmon fillets form the base, offering rich and flaky meat. Honey gives sweetness, while the butter adds a creamy texture. Garlic brings a punch of flavor, complemented by soy sauce and Dijon mustard for depth. Fresh ginger adds warmth, and salt and pepper balance it all. Don’t forget the parsley and lemon! They add freshness and brightness to every bite. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, prepare your salmon fillets. Make sure they are thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp up. Next, mince the garlic. Use a sharp knife for this task. Chop it finely until it’s almost a paste. This releases its strong flavor into the dish. Now, grate the fresh ginger. Use a microplane for best results. This adds a nice zing to the sauce. Let’s start cooking! Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute. You want it fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly. Remove it from heat and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy later. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Season them with salt and pepper. Brush the honey garlic butter mixture over each fillet. Be generous, but save some sauce for later. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It should flake easily with a fork when done. For a nice finish, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes. This caramelizes the top and adds flavor. Once out of the oven, brush on more honey garlic butter sauce if you like. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds brightness to the dish, making it extra tasty. How do I check doneness? To check if salmon is done, look for a few signs. The fish should be opaque and firm. Use a fork to see if it flakes easily. If it does, it’s ready. A food thermometer is great too. Aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). How do I avoid dry salmon? To keep salmon juicy, don’t overcook it. Baking for 12-15 minutes usually works well. Brush it with honey garlic butter before cooking. Adding some butter on top helps lock in moisture. What other ingredients can I use? You can add flavors like red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme work nicely too. For a tangy touch, try adding lemon zest. How do I adjust sweetness and seasoning? If you want it sweeter, add more honey. For a salty punch, use extra soy sauce. Always taste the sauce before you pour it on the salmon. You can tweak it to your liking. What are some alternative cooking methods? You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Just preheat the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. You can also pan-sear it on the stove for a crispy skin. What’s the difference between grilling and baking? Baking gives you a soft, tender fish. Grilling adds a nice char and flavor. Both methods work well. Choose based on your taste or the equipment you have available. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Salmon: Select salmon fillets that have a bright color and smell fresh to ensure the best flavor and texture. Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when cooked to a medium doneness; it should flake easily but still be moist. Use a meat thermometer for precision. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the honey garlic butter by adding more honey or soy sauce to suit your taste. Broil for Extra Flavor: Broiling the salmon for the last few minutes adds a delicious caramelized finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. {{image_2}} You can choose between wild-caught and farmed salmon. Wild-caught salmon has a richer taste and firmer texture. It is often preferred for its health benefits. Farmed salmon is usually milder and more affordable. It is easier to find in stores. You can also decide on skin-on or skinless salmon. Skin-on salmon has a nice crispy texture when cooked. It helps keep the fish moist during baking. Skinless salmon cooks faster, making it a great choice for quick meals. You can spice up your honey garlic butter salmon. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This adds heat and depth to the dish. You can also try a citrus-infused version. Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce. This adds freshness and brightens the flavors. Pair your salmon with tasty side dishes. Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad work well. These sides add color and nutrition to your plate. For meal prep ideas, cook extra salmon for later. You can store it in the fridge for quick lunches. A salmon salad or wrap makes a great next-day meal. To keep your honey garlic butter salmon fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the salmon in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and flavors intact. It’s best to eat the salmon within three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze the salmon. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy your dish for up to three months. When you are ready to eat leftovers, reheating correctly makes a big difference. The best way to reheat salmon is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the salmon moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Honey garlic salmon lasts in the fridge for about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. To tell if the salmon has gone bad, look for color changes or a sour smell. If it smells off or looks dull, it's best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup works well. You can also try agave nectar. Both options give a sweet flavor. They match nicely with the butter and garlic. Adjust the amount to your taste. Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place it in the fridge overnight or use cold water. This helps the salmon cook evenly. Cooking time may change slightly, so keep an eye on it. Eating undercooked salmon can be risky. It might contain harmful bacteria or parasites. I recommend cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and flaky. To make honey garlic butter salmon gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari. Tamari is a great gluten-free choice. You can also find gluten-free soy sauce at stores. Just check the label for safety. Honey garlic butter salmon tastes great with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans - Rice or quinoa for a hearty base - A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette - Mashed potatoes for a comfort food feel These sides complement the salmon's sweet and savory flavors. This blog post covered how to cook a delicious honey garlic salmon. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips to get it just right. Remember, freshness matters, and storing leftovers properly keeps them tasty. Feel free to try variations and enjoy different flavors. Cooking can be fun and easy! Experiment with side dishes to make meals unique. Enjoy your cooking adventure with honey garlic salmon!

Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

A delicious salmon dish glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic butter sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon (6 oz each)
  • 1 cup honey
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
  • for serving lemon wedges

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Stir in the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Season each fillet with salt and pepper.
  • Brush the honey garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each salmon fillet, reserving some of the sauce for later.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  • During the last few minutes of baking, you can broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the top if desired.
  • Remove from the oven and brush with additional honey garlic butter sauce if you like.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add more garlic or use a different type of fish.
Keyword butter, garlic, honey, salmon

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