Baked Orange Glazed Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Orange Glazed Salmon is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the rich, tender taste of salmon with a zesty, slightly sweet orange glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The citrusy glaze enhances the natural flavor of the fish and creates a beautifully caramelized finish.

ingredients

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

salmon filletsfresh orange juiceorange zestsoy saucesesame oilhoneygarlic (minced)ginger (grated)olive oilsalt and black peppergreen onions (for garnish)sesame seeds (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger.

Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.

Brush a generous amount of the orange glaze over the salmon.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Remove from the oven and brush with additional glaze.

Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Add a layer of orange slices on top before baking for extra citrus flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain moistness.

Baked Orange Glazed Salmon

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What type of orange works best?

Fresh navel or Valencia oranges are ideal for juice and zest.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, salmon is high in omega-3s and the glaze uses natural ingredients for flavor.

Can I grill this instead?

Absolutely, just reduce the glaze slightly more and grill on medium heat.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork at the thickest part.

Can I marinate the salmon in the glaze?

Yes, for about 30 minutes before baking for extra flavor.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch—choose 100% juice with no added sugar.

Does the skin stay on?

That’s up to you—bake skin-on for extra flavor or remove before cooking.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the glaze and salmon in advance, then bake when ready to serve.

What can I serve with it?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Baked Orange Glazed Salmon is a vibrant and delicious way to enjoy seafood with a tangy twist. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s an easy go-to for a satisfying and elegant meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

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Baked Orange Glazed Salmon

Baked Orange Glazed Salmon

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Tender, flavorful salmon fillets baked to perfection with a bright and tangy orange-honey glaze.


Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thicker glaze)
  • Orange zest and fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
  2. Pat salmon fillets dry, season with salt and pepper, and place them skin-side down on the prepared sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until honey dissolves.
  4. If a thicker glaze is desired, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Brush or spoon half of the glaze over salmon fillets.
  6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until salmon is just opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through baking, brush with remaining glaze.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with orange zest and parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcook salmon: it should be opaque but still moist.
  • For extra flavor, marinate fillets in half the glaze mixture for 15–30 minutes before baking.
  • Can substitute maple syrup or brown sugar for honey if preferred.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.