1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This is your flavor-packed glaze.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Brush the glaze generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring they’re well coated. Save some glaze for basting halfway through the cooking process.
5. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through, baste with the remaining glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

As you cook, remember my grandmother’s advice: trust your senses. The aroma of honey caramelizing and the sight of the salmon turning a perfect shade of golden-brown will guide you along the way.