Save This dish features tender salmon fillets seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then baked until perfectly flaky. The star is the vibrant orange glaze, made with fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and a touch of Dijon mustard for depth. Brushed over the salmon before baking, the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky-sweet coating that complements the rich fish.
Ready in just 30 minutes with only 10 minutes of active prep, this dish strikes the perfect balance between effortless weeknight cooking and elegant presentation. The bright citrus flavors pair wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a frantic Tuesday evening when I realized I had forgotten to defrost the chicken. The bright smell of simmering orange zest instantly lifted the mood in my kitchen. Now, whenever life feels too chaotic, this salmon is my go to quick fix.
My usually picky sister in law actually asked for seconds the first time I served this at a family dinner. Seeing her scrape up the last bit of sauce with her fork was a huge victory for me. It has been a permanent fixture in our rotation ever since.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Fresh fillets are crucial here for the best texture
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the fish nicely
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning works best to let the glaze shine
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: Bottled juice just does not compare to the fresh stuff
- Honey: Adds that necessary caramelization to the glaze
- Soy sauce: Use tamari to keep it gluten free if needed
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that cuts the sweetness
- Cornstarch: Thickens the glaze perfectly so it coats the fish
Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat the oven and line the pan so cleanup is a breeze
- Season the fish:
- Dry the salmon well and rub it with oil and spices
- Start the base:
- Combine the liquids and zest in a pan over medium heat
- Thicken it up:
- Stir in the slurry and watch for the sauce to thicken up
- Glaze generously:
- Brush a thick layer of sauce onto each piece of salmon
- Bake to perfection:
- Cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle with extra sauce and add a pop of color with parsley
Save We ate this on a rainy Sunday afternoon while watching a marathon of old movies. It turned a gloomy day into something surprisingly cozy and warm.
Making the Glaze Perfect
Watch the glaze like a hawk once the cornstarch goes in because it transforms from liquid to gel very fast. A vigorous whisk ensures there are no lumps to ruin the silky texture.
Selecting the Best Fish
Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and smell like the ocean rather than fishy. If the skin is on, make sure it looks firm and tightly attached to the flesh.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that do not compete with the citrus flavor.
- Steamed jasmine rice soaks up the extra sauce
- Roasted asparagus adds a nice crunch
- A crisp green salad cuts through the richness
Save I hope this bright salmon recipe brings a little sunshine to your dinner table. Enjoy every bite of the zesty, flaky goodness.
Common Questions
- → What temperature should I bake salmon?
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Bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, until it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center. This ensures tender, moist results without overcooking.
- → Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?
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Yes, prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before brushing over the salmon, as it will thicken when chilled.
- → How do I know when salmon is done?
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The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as the fish will continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
- → What sides pair well with this salmon?
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Steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the bright citrus flavors. The glaze also works beautifully over roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.
- → Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
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Yes, thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the glaze adhere properly and ensures even cooking.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
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The dish is naturally gluten-free when you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients, including salmon, orange juice, honey, and cornstarch, are gluten-free.
