Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: I can have it on the table in just 25 minutes.

• Sweet and savory glaze: The citrusy sweetness of orange pairs perfectly with the umami richness of soy sauce.

• One-pan simplicity: Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

• Customizable: I sometimes add orange zest or a splash of rice vinegar for a flavor boost.

• Healthy and satisfying: It’s rich in omega-3s and full of fresh, real ingredients.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon and Seasoning

• 1 pound salmon fillets

• Salt, to taste

• Pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Orange Glaze

• ½ cup orange juice (fresh squeezed from about 1 orange)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch whisked with 1 teaspoon water (optional, for thickening)

Directions

1. Heat the Butter
   I start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and slightly foamy.

2. Season and Cook the Salmon
   I season my salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side up in the skillet. I sear for about 3–5 minutes until the top is golden, then flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. I make sure it reaches 145°F internally at the thickest point.

3. Rest the Salmon
   Once cooked, I transfer the salmon to a plate and tent it loosely with foil to keep warm while I work on the glaze.

4. Mix the Orange Glaze
   I whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and the optional cornstarch slurry in a small bowl. This becomes the magic glaze that brings the whole dish together.

5. Cook the Glaze
   I pour the mixture into the same skillet and reduce the heat to medium. If using cornstarch, the glaze thickens in about 30–60 seconds. Otherwise, I just let it simmer until warmed through and slightly reduced.

6. Coat the Salmon
   I return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon the warm glaze generously over them. If I want to be a little extra, I toss in a few orange slices for garnish.

7. Serve Immediately
   I serve the salmon hot, spooning more glaze on top. It’s amazing with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

• Spicy Kick: I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.

• Zesty Upgrade: I sometimes stir in 1 teaspoon of orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

• Citrus Mix: Swapping part of the orange juice with pineapple juice or lime juice changes the flavor in fun ways.

• Gluten-Free: I use tamari instead of soy sauce when I need a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

• I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, I warm the salmon gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying it out. A little splash of water or extra glaze helps retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I use frozen salmon often. I just thaw it fully in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before cooking.

Do I need to use fresh orange juice?

Fresh juice gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used bottled 100% orange juice and it still turns out great.

Can I make the glaze in advance?

Absolutely. I mix and refrigerate the glaze ingredients ahead of time, then pour and simmer when I’m ready to cook.

What’s the best side dish for this recipe?

I love pairing it with jasmine rice or couscous and some sautéed green beans or bok choy for a well-rounded meal.

How do I know the salmon is done?

When it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque center, it’s ready. I also use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F internally.

Conclusion

This Orange Glazed Salmon is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy dinner that I find myself returning to again and again. It’s light but satisfying, sophisticated yet simple, and always a hit no matter who I’m cooking for. If you’re looking for a quick meal that impresses, this one’s a keeper.