Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze

Name: Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 blood oranges, juiced; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried making Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze, I was blown away by how the citrusy sweetness complemented the savory richness of the salmon. The vibrant orange glaze adds not just flavor but also a beautiful color to the dish, making it perfect for a special dinner. The balance of flavors is delightful, and the whole preparation comes together in no time. I love how this recipe lets the natural flavor of the fish shine, while the glaze enhances every bite. It has quickly become one of my favorites to serve to guests!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:25:10.286Z

I first discovered blood oranges at a local market and was instantly captivated by their vibrant color and unique flavor. I knew right away that I had to pair them with my favorite fish, salmon. This dish is not only visually stunning but also offers a symphony of flavors that tickle the palate. I experimented with different herbs and spices, ultimately finding that a touch of thyme truly elevates the dish.

One tip I learned is to let the blood orange glaze simmer down until it thickens slightly; this enhances its sweetness and creates a sticky consistency that clings beautifully to the salmon. Serve it over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a healthy and impressive meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Beautifully vibrant colors that impress at any gathering
Tangy and sweet glaze that perfectly balances the richness of salmon
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

      

Understanding Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are not just visually stunning; they also offer a unique flavor profile that enhances this dish. Their sweetness is balanced with a subtle tartness that brightens the rich taste of salmon. When juicing the blood oranges, aim for fresh ones, as bottled juice may lack the vibrant flavor you need for the glaze. You'll notice the difference in taste and color, making your dish pop with more intensity.

To maximize the juice yield, roll the blood oranges on a countertop before cutting them in half. This breaks down the interior walls of the fruit, allowing for easier extraction. Also, consider straining the juice to remove any pulp or seeds for a smoother glaze, which will adhere better to the salmon for an elegant presentation.

Perfecting the Salmon

Choosing the right salmon is crucial for this recipe. Opt for wild-caught salmon if available, as it tends to have a cleaner, more robust flavor compared to farmed salmon. Look for fillets that are bright in color with minimal grayish areas; these are indicators of freshness. If you prefer skinless fillets, remember that they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent drying out.

When cooking the salmon, ensuring the skillet is hot enough is vital for achieving that crispy skin. A preheated skillet should shimmer with the olive oil, indicating it's ready. Place the salmon, skin-side down, and avoid moving it for the first few minutes. This not only helps achieve that desired crispness but also seals in moisture. If the salmon sticks, it may need a little more time to release naturally from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your salmon with delightful sides can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside steamed asparagus or a light arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. These options will complement the citrusy glaze and add freshness to your plate. For added texture, consider a side of quinoa or roasted potatoes, which can soak up the sauce beautifully.

For an impressive presentation, drizzle extra blood orange glaze over the salmon just before serving and garnish with fresh thyme. If you're hosting, offering some crusty bread on the side is a great way for guests to enjoy the remaining glaze. Feel free to get creative by adding toasted nuts or seeds to your sides for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Blood Orange Glaze

2 blood oranges, juiced
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the blood orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and let it reduce for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Cook the Salmon

While the glaze is simmering, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the skillet, and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Glaze the Salmon

Once the salmon is cooked, pour the blood orange glaze over the fillets in the skillet. Let it bubble for an additional minute, ensuring the salmon is well coated.

Serve

Serve the salmon hot, drizzled with extra glaze and garnished with thyme if desired.

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon in the blood orange juice for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the fish with a deep citrusy aroma and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If blood oranges are not available, you can use regular oranges or even grapefruits for a different twist. While the flavor will change slightly, the sweetness and acidity will still work beautifully with the salmon. Just adjust the honey quantity based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose. Less sweet fruits might require an increase in honey to achieve a balanced glaze.

Dijon mustard plays a crucial role in adding depth to the glaze. If you need a substitute, yellow mustard works in a pinch but lacks complex flavor; consider adding a splash of vinegar to mimic some of the tangy character of Dijon. For a milder taste, try using honey mustard, but reduce the honey in the recipe accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep since you can prepare the blood orange glaze in advance. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply warm it on the stove before drizzling over the cooked salmon. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing its taste when you finally use it.

Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave using a microwave-safe cover to avoid drying it out. Alternatively, cold salmon can be flaked into salads or wraps for a refreshing meal the next day.

Glaze Techniques

When simmering the blood orange glaze, keep a close eye on its consistency. It should thicken to a syrup-like texture, which typically takes about 5 minutes of simmering. If it becomes too thick, you can whisk in a little water to loosen it. A properly glazed salmon will have a glossy finish, indicating that the sauce has adhered well without being overly runny.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze while it simmers. This will pair beautifully with the sweet and tangy elements, creating a more complex flavor profile. Just be cautious with the spice level; add a little at a time and taste as you go to get the right balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, regular oranges can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different. Blood oranges provide a unique sweetness and color.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned from translucent to opaque in color.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before using.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This salmon pairs well with couscous, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.