Salmon is always easier to serve in my house because at least one of my kids is genuinely happy to see it for dinner. I usually keep the seasoning simple, but this orange and pomegranate version is what I make when I want the meal to look a little more special.
The salmon is brushed with an orange and honey glaze that turns glossy and slightly caramelized in the oven. Fresh pomegranate seeds go on after baking, along with orange pieces and a little cilantro. They add a fresh, slightly tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Although it looks like a holiday dish, the whole recipe takes about 30 minutes. I serve it with roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad, depending on what I already have in the kitchen.
Orange-Glazed Salmon Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 whole salmon fillet, about 2 pounds
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 orange, cut into small wedges
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place it skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush it with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Add the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and orange zest to a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Pour it into the saucepan and stir for 1 to 2 minutes, until the glaze begins to thicken.
- Brush about half of the orange glaze over the salmon. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
- Bake the salmon for 12 minutes. Remove it from the oven, brush it with more glaze, and return it to the oven for another 4 to 7 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist in the center.
- For a darker, slightly caramelized surface, broil the salmon for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Watch it closely because the honey and sugar can burn quickly.
- Allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes. Spoon over any remaining glaze, then scatter the pomegranate seeds and orange pieces over the top.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve warm.
Tips
- Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon. Check the thickest section before removing it from the oven.
- Add the pomegranate seeds after baking so they remain fresh and firm.
- Replace the cilantro with parsley if your family does not enjoy its flavor.
- Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use individual salmon fillets?
Yes. Arrange the fillets on a lined baking sheet and brush them with the glaze. Individual pieces will usually bake in 10 to 14 minutes, depending on their thickness.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice gives the glaze a brighter flavor, but bottled orange juice will also work. Choose one without added sugar if possible.
What can I use instead of pomegranate seeds?
Dried cranberries are a simple substitute, although they will be sweeter and chewier. You can also leave them out and serve the salmon with orange pieces and fresh herbs.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should flake easily when pressed gently with a fork. The center should look moist rather than dry. For a more precise check, the USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the glaze up to two days in advance and store it in a covered container in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before brushing it over the salmon.
Should I remove the salmon skin?
You can leave the skin on while baking. It helps hold the large fillet together and makes it easier to move after cooking. The cooked salmon can be lifted away from the skin when served.
How can I keep the salmon from drying out?
Start checking it a few minutes before the suggested cooking time ends. The exact time depends on the thickness of the fillet, and salmon can become dry quickly if left in the oven too long.
What should I serve with orange pomegranate salmon?
Roasted potatoes, rice, couscous, green beans, asparagus, or a simple salad all work well. For a holiday dinner, serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
The glaze can be prepared early, but the salmon tastes best when baked shortly before serving. You can assemble the toppings in advance and add them once the salmon comes out of the oven.
How should I store leftovers?
Place leftover salmon in a covered container and refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave so it does not become dry.