Orange Glazed Salmon

Orange Glazed Salmon is a quick and vibrant dish where salmon fillets are coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, then pan-seared or baked until perfectly tender. It’s a flavorful and elegant meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright citrus flavor pairs beautifully with rich salmon
• Ready in about 25 minutes
• Easily adaptable for different cooking methods
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Healthy and packed with omega-3s

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)
• Garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs

directions

this recipe

1. Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
2. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce (or mustard), and garlic. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. If desired, stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken further.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add salmon skin-side down and sear for 3–5 minutes. Flip and cook another 2–4 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily.
4. Pour the glaze over the salmon during the last minute of cooking or brush on after removing from heat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, or orange slices.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use maple syrup and Dijon mustard for a maple-Dijon glaze
• Add fresh grated ginger or chili flakes for a spicy kick
• Bake salmon at 400°F for 12–15 minutes instead of pan-searing
• Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice for a full meal
• Try orange-miso glaze for an umami-rich twist

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 300°F with a splash of water or glaze to keep it moist
• Avoid microwaving to preserve texture
• Freeze glazed salmon for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before reheating

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should be 145°F.

Can I thicken the glaze more?

Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired thickness.

What sides go well with orange glazed salmon?

Try steamed rice, quinoa, roasted asparagus, broccoli, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute tamari for soy sauce.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and can be gently reheated for quick meals.

Can I bake instead of sear the salmon?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes depending on thickness.

Can I add more spice?

Yes, include chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or sriracha in the glaze.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the glaze and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh juice is best, but you can use bottled if it’s 100% juice without added sugar.

Conclusion

Orange Glazed Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the bold, zesty flavor of orange with the richness of salmon in a light, tangy glaze. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without stress.

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