If you’re looking for a way to elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something truly memorable, this Orange Glazed Salmon will be your new best friend. Sink your fork into tender salmon fillets bathed in a zesty orange-honey glaze that transforms an easy dinner into a memorable feast. Combining freshly squeezed orange juice with a hint of rice vinegar and honey, this dish delivers a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. With just 20 minutes of prep and roughly 25 minutes of baking and finishing, it’s a quick salmon dinner that feels straight out of a restaurant—no reservations required. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or hosting friends for a casual lunch, this citrus salmon recipe adds a bright, professional touch to any table.
I still remember the first time I whipped up this honey soy salmon on a rainy evening. The kitchen filled with the scent of garlic and ginger as the glaze bubbled away, and my family hovered at the counter, eager for a taste. We plated it over fluffy steamed rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, and every bite was an explosion of flavor. From the sear in the skillet to the glossy coat of ginger garlic glaze, this dish has become one of my go-to baked salmon recipes. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be sharing this recipe with everyone you know.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ORANGE GLAZED SALMON
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s explore the star ingredients that make this dish shine.
- Salmon fillets
High-quality, skin-on salmon gives you that perfect flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor. The skin helps hold the fillet together during searing and prevents sticking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Simple seasoning that enhances the natural taste of the salmon, creating a balanced base for the sweet and tangy glaze.
- Olive oil
Used for searing the fillets to achieve a crisp, golden exterior while locking in moisture.
- Orange juice
Freshly squeezed if possible, it provides bright citrus notes and the liquid base for the glaze.
- Soy sauce
Adds umami depth and a salty counterpoint to the honey’s sweetness.
- Honey
Brings natural sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize, forming a glossy coating on each fillet.
- Rice vinegar
Contributes a gentle acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the tanginess.
- Orange zest
Intensifies the citrus profile, releasing fragrant oils that cut through the fish’s richness.
- Grated fresh ginger
Delivers a warm, spicy kick and aromatic complexity to the sauce.
- Garlic
Minced cloves lend savory pungency, rounding out the flavor layers.
- Cornstarch
Acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the glaze clings beautifully to the salmon.
- Water
Combined with cornstarch to form a slurry that helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- Green onions and sesame seeds (optional)
Provide a fresh, crunchy garnish and an extra pop of color.
HOW TO MAKE ORANGE GLAZED SALMON
Ready to transform your salmon into a citrus-kissed masterpiece? Follow these steps to bring together searing, baking, and a sticky-sweet glaze that clings to each tender fillet.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and even baking.
2. Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the fillets skin-side up and sear for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until you achieve a deep golden crust. Transfer them carefully to the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, grated ginger, and minced garlic until fully combined into a smooth marinade.
5. Pour half of the marinade evenly over the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, making sure each piece is coated in that vibrant, glossy sauce.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
7. Meanwhile, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering marinade. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
8. Remove the salmon from the oven and place the baking sheet on a heat-safe surface. Drizzle the thickened orange glaze generously over each fillet, allowing it to pool around the edges for extra flavor.
9. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately while everything is hot and the glaze is gloriously sticky.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ORANGE GLAZED SALMON
When it comes to plating and serving this vibrant dish, you’ve got plenty of delicious paths to explore. Whether you’re aiming for a balanced weeknight meal or an impressive dinner spread, these ideas will help you make the most of every bite, ensuring each plate looks as fantastic as it tastes.
- Serve over a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up all the extra glaze. Fluff the rice with a fork, drizzle a little soy sauce, and top with sliced scallions for an inviting presentation.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or baby carrots. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast until tender, and arrange alongside the salmon for a colorful, nutrient-packed plate.
- Offer a crisp green salad featuring baby arugula, shaved fennel, and thinly sliced radish. Dress lightly with lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich fish.
- Transform leftovers into salmon tacos or a salmon bowl by flaking the fish and combining it with shredded cabbage, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Top with extra glaze for a zesty twist.
HOW TO STORE ORANGE GLAZED SALMON
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy the tangy-sweet magic of this dish even days after cooking. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers, follow these guidelines to maintain flavor, texture, and freshness.
- Refrigerator: Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep any extra glaze in a separate small jar to retain its glossy texture.
- Freezer: For longer-term storage, wrap each cooled fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Separate Glaze: If you anticipate leftovers, ladle any unused glaze into a small container and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to restore its silky consistency before drizzling.
- Reheating Tips: Warm salmon in a low oven (275°F/135°C) for 8–10 minutes or use a microwave on 50% power in short intervals to prevent drying. Add a splash of water or extra glaze to keep the fish moist.
CONCLUSION
Orange Glazed Salmon is a bright, restaurant-quality dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory. This intermediate-level recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend gatherings. With a glossy ginger garlic glaze that clings to each flakey fillet, you’ll be greeted by vivid flavors and a stunning presentation every time you serve it. Remember, you can personalize the heat by adding red pepper flakes, swap tofu or chicken for the salmon, or double the glaze for an even more decadent finish. Don’t forget that this article is perfectly formatted for printing—ideal for pinning to your recipe board or tucking into your favorite cookbook. And if you ever need a quick refresher, you can always come back to this guide and check out the FAQ below.
I can’t wait to hear how your Orange Glazed Salmon turns out! Feel free to leave any comments, questions, or feedback if you try this recipe or need a hand troubleshooting any step. Whether you’re wondering about cooking times, ingredient swaps, or presentation tips, I’m here to help you make every dinner a bright, flavorful success. Happy cooking!
Orange Glazed Salmon
Description
Zesty orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and ginger combine into a glossy glaze that clings to seared salmon, delivering sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Quick to prepare, this dish adds a bright, restaurant-style touch to any table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
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Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side up, and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and garlic to create the marinade.
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Pour half of the marinade over the salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
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Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Meanwhile, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the simmering marinade and stir until the sauce thickens.
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Remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle the thickened orange glaze over the fillets.
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Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired before serving.
Note
- Orange glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the rich taste of the salmon.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- The glaze can be used on other proteins such as chicken or tofu.
- Fresh oranges will give a brighter and more vibrant flavor, enhancing the dish's overall appeal.
- Serve this salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
