Description
Citrus Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
Ingredients
1 lb salmon fillet
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup fresh orange juice
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup pineapple chunks
1/2 cup pomegranate arils
1/2 cup kiwi slices
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Bake the Salmon:
Brush the glaze generously over the salmon. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Add the Toppings:
Top the baked salmon with pineapple chunks, pomegranate arils, and kiwi slices. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve:
Slice and serve warm with a side of rice or roasted veggies for a vibrant, nutritious meal!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect glazed salmon every time. First, ensure your salmon fillet is at room temperature for even cooking. Pat it completely dry with paper towels; this helps the skin crisp and the glaze adhere. When making the glaze, warm the honey slightly for easier mixing. Whisk the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and mustard vigorously until fully emulsified. Reserve about two tablespoons of the glaze in a separate bowl for serving. During baking, baste the salmon with the pan juices and extra glaze at the 10-minute mark to build a deeper, shinier crust. Use a food thermometer to check for doneness—the thickest part should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salmon is incredibly versatile. For a light meal, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or a quinoa salad. It pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potato wedges. For a more substantial plate, accompany it with coconut rice, jasmine rice, or buttered orzo. The leftover glaze can be gently heated and drizzled around the plate for an extra burst of flavor.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves patting dry and seasoning a salmon fillet, whisking together a simple citrus-honey-soy glaze, baking the salmon while basting it with the glaze, and finishing with a colorful topping of fresh pineapple, pomegranate, kiwi, and parsley for a sweet, tart, and savory combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat it very dry to prevent excess water from diluting the glaze.
What can I substitute for pomegranate arils?
Dried cranberries, fresh raspberries, or even diced mango offer a similar sweet-tart contrast.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 275°F to prevent drying out.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and whisk again before using.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos are a great soy-free alternative that will still provide a savory, umami depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Salmon: A wet fillet will steam instead of roast and the glaze will slide off.
- Overcooking: Salmon continues to cook after removal from the oven. Remove it when it’s just slightly under your desired doneness.
- Adding Fruit Too Early: Adding the fresh fruit toppings before baking will cause them to become mushy and lose their vibrant texture.
- Using Bottled Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is crucial for the brightest, non-bitter citrus flavor.
Conclusion
This Citrus Pomegranate Glazed Salmon is more than just a recipe—it’s a guaranteed way to create an impressive, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The harmony of the sweet-tangy glaze with the rich salmon and fresh fruit topping makes it a nutritious and visually stunning centerpiece for any occasion, from a busy weeknight to a special dinner with guests.