Irresistible Orange Glazed Salmon in Just 15 Minutes!
The Secret to Perfect Orange Glazed Salmon in Just 15 Minutes
If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive dinner option, this Orange Glazed Salmon is the answer. With its delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish will leave your family raving about dinner long after the last bite. The tangy orange juice combined with honey and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the salmon to restaurant-quality status, all while keeping it simple and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Glazed Salmon
– Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– Minimal ingredients: Requires only 5 key ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
– Gluten-free: A delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities.
– Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with rice, veggies, or salad.
– Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats without sacrificing flavor.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To get started on this delectable dish, gather these essential tools:
– Large skillet: Ideal for searing the salmon and making the glaze.
– Meat thermometer: Ensures your salmon is cooked perfectly at 145°F.
– Whisk: Useful for mixing the glaze ingredients together smoothly.
– Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for achieving the right flavor balance.
– Spatula: Great for flipping the salmon fillets without breaking them apart.
Preparation Tips
For perfect results every time, make sure to use fresh orange juice for a vibrant flavor. Don’t rush the cooking process; let the salmon develop a nice golden crust before flipping. If you prefer a thicker glaze, incorporate cornstarch mixed with water as indicated in the recipe.
Ingredients for this Orange Glazed Salmon
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 pound salmon fillets
– salt
– pepper
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed from approximately 1 orange)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch (whisked with 1 teaspoon water, optional for a thicker glaze)
Orange Glazed Salmon
Orange Glazed Salmon is a delightful, quick and easy recipe that brings the brightness of citrus to your dinner table. With just five ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet orange juice with savory soy sauce creates a beautiful glaze that complements the rich flavor of salmon perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Butter
Start by heating one tablespoon of butter (or olive oil if you prefer) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it creates a sizzling base for your salmon, ensuring it gets that lovely golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
While the butter is melting, take your one pound of salmon fillets and season them generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every bite is delicious. Once seasoned, place the fillets skin side up in the hot skillet.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden
Let the salmon cook for about 3-5 minutes without moving it around. You want to achieve a beautiful golden sear on top. After this initial cooking time, carefully flip the fillets over and allow them to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F when measured at the thickest part.
Step 4: Keep Warm
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate. To keep it warm while you prepare your glaze, gently tent it with foil. This will help retain heat without overcooking.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Glaze
Return your skillet to medium heat and combine half a cup of fresh orange juice, two tablespoons of honey, two tablespoons of soy sauce, minced garlic cloves, and if you like a thicker glaze, add in your cornstarch slurry (made from whisking one teaspoon of cornstarch with one teaspoon of water). Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 6: Cook Until Hot
Allow this mixture to heat through for about 30-60 seconds. If you added cornstarch, you’ll notice it thickening beautifully during this time. This glaze is where all that vibrant flavor comes from!
Step 7: Coat the Salmon
Finally, return your perfectly cooked salmon back into the skillet with the glaze. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over each piece to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. For an extra touch, consider adding slices of fresh orange on top for presentation.
Notes
The beauty of Orange Glazed Salmon lies in its versatility. Feel free to substitute salmon with other fish like trout or even chicken if fish isn’t your favorite protein! You can also throw in some veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to make it a complete meal in one pan. To elevate flavors even further, try adding ginger or sesame seeds into your glaze for an exciting twist!
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
– Not allowing the pan to fully heat before adding salmon can lead to sticking.
– Cooking at too high a temperature may burn the garlic.
– Overcooking salmon can result in dry texture; always check for doneness.
– Forgetting to tent the cooked salmon can lead to loss of warmth.
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftovers—though I doubt you will—they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat properly, simply warm them gently on low heat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes upon thawing.
Estimated Nutrition
– Calories: 242 kcal
– Protein: 24 g
– Fat: 10 g
– Carbs: 13 g
– Sugar: 11 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking so that it cooks evenly.
What can I serve with Orange Glazed Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
The best way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer; look for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this Orange Glazed Salmon! It’s such a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
Orange Glazed Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper, then place them skin side up in the hot skillet.
- Cook the salmon for about 3-5 minutes without moving it, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and tent it with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch slurry. Stir until well mixed.
- Heat the glaze mixture for about 30-60 seconds until hot.
- Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the glaze over each piece.
