Orange Glazed Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange glazed salmon offers a delicious departure from classic salmon preparations. The glaze adds a sticky, glossy finish that pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery texture of the salmon. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor—perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Plus, it’s fast, easy, and made with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

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

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Fresh orange juice
• Orange zest
• Soy sauce
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced or grated (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Green onions or sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook the glaze for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
3. Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, until crisp.
5. Flip and cook for 2–3 more minutes, or until the salmon is nearly cooked through.
6. Pour the glaze over the salmon and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, spooning the sauce over the fillets.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.
8. Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Alternate baking method:
Place seasoned salmon on a lined baking sheet. Brush with glaze and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, brushing with additional glaze halfway through.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy orange glaze: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze.
• Asian-style: Add a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil to the glaze for extra umami.
• Broiled finish: Broil the salmon for the last 2–3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
• Citrus blend: Mix orange juice with lime or lemon juice for a brighter citrus flavor.
• Low-sugar option: Use less honey or replace with a low-glycemic sweetener like monk fruit.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Microwave with caution to avoid overcooking and drying out the fish.
The glaze may thicken more after refrigeration but will loosen once reheated.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but fresh orange juice will give the glaze a brighter, fresher flavor. Look for juice without added sugar if using bottled.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

No, leaving the skin on helps hold the fillet together and adds crisp texture when pan-seared.

What if I don’t have honey?

You can use maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar as a substitute.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C).

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure a good sear and even cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I grill orange glazed salmon?

Yes, brush the glaze on during the last few minutes of grilling to prevent burning.

What sides go well with orange glazed salmon?

Steamed rice, roasted broccoli, quinoa, sautéed greens, or a citrusy salad are all excellent choices.

Can I make the glaze ahead?

Yes, make and refrigerate the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Reheat gently before using.

Does the glaze need to be thick?

It should be slightly syrupy, enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools or cooks with the salmon.

Conclusion

Orange Glazed Salmon is a flavorful, elegant, and easy recipe that brings a sweet and savory punch to your dinner table. With its sticky citrus glaze and tender, flaky salmon, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a special meal, it’s a simple way to make salmon feel fresh and exciting.

Orange Glazed Salmon

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Orange Glazed Salmon is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet, tangy, and savory citrus glaze. Quick to make and elegant to serve, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet or Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
2. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until skin is crisp.
4. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes more until nearly done.
5. Pour glaze over salmon and simmer 1–2 minutes, spooning sauce over the fillets.
6. Remove from heat, rest briefly, and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds. Serve with rice or vegetables.
7. Alternate method: Place seasoned salmon on a baking sheet, brush with glaze, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, glazing halfway through.

Notes

• Fresh orange juice gives the glaze the best flavor, but bottled juice works too.
• For more caramelization, broil salmon for the last 2–3 minutes.
• Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
• The glaze should coat the back of a spoon; it thickens slightly as it cools.
• Make the glaze ahead and refrigerate up to 3 days for quick weeknight prep.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet (based on 4 servings)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg