This Orange Glazed Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The combination of fresh orange juice, honey, and soy sauce creates a rich, glossy glaze that enhances the natural taste of salmon. It’s an easy, healthy meal that’s great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Healthy and nutritious – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.
- Delicious glaze – The mix of honey, orange juice, and soy sauce adds an irresistible sweet-savory flavor.
- Gluten-free – A great option for those avoiding gluten.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Salmon fillets – 4 pieces
- Garlic cloves (minced) – 2
- Orange zest – 1 tablespoon
- Freshly squeezed orange juice – ½ cup
- Honey – ¼ cup
- Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Cornstarch (mixed with water) – 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Directions
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the glaze: In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and orange zest. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce: Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the glaze thickens.
- Glaze the salmon: Return the salmon to the pan, spooning the glaze over the fillets. Cook for another minute to coat the salmon well.
- Serve: Plate the salmon and drizzle with extra glaze. Garnish with fresh orange zest or chopped herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Orange Glaze: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Ginger Twist: Mix in grated ginger for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Baked Version: Instead of pan-searing, bake the salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, then brush with the glaze before serving.
- Maple Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of orange juice to refresh the glaze. Alternatively, microwave for 30-40 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even results.
What side dishes go well with orange glazed salmon?
It pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Grill the salmon over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, then brush with the glaze before serving.
What type of salmon works best?
Wild-caught salmon has the best flavor, but farmed salmon also works well.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
Increase the amount of cornstarch or let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Conclusion
Orange Glazed Salmon is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of citrusy sweetness to your dinner table. Whether you serve it with rice, veggies, or a light salad, this flavorful salmon recipe is sure to impress. Try it for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion!
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Orange Glazed Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Orange Glazed Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish featuring a delicious blend of fresh orange juice, honey, and soy sauce. The citrusy glaze perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free recipe makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, orange zest, and minced garlic.
- Sear the Salmon:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them in the skillet, skin-side down.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Glaze:
- In the same skillet, add the orange glaze mixture and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Coat the Salmon:
- Return the salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the glaze over them.
- Let them cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated and heated through.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Drizzle any remaining glaze over the salmon.
- Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey if preferred.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
