Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze

Name: Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/2 cup blood orange juice; Zest of 1 blood orange; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (optional for garnish)

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

I love preparing Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze because it always feels like a special occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a dish that not only looks stunning but also bursts with flavor. I often find myself craving this dish during the colder months when citrus fruits are at their peak, and it never disappoints. Paired with a side of golden roasted vegetables, this recipe has quickly become a favorite among my friends and family, perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:10:15.228Z

During one of my weekend culinary adventures, I decided to experiment with blood oranges, which had just come into season. I paired their vibrant flavor with salmon, and the combination was a game changer. The glaze sweetens up while cooking, creating a caramelized crust that seals in the fish’s natural juices.

I was skeptical at first about how well the flavors would meld, but the results were fantastic! I learned that marinating the salmon just for a short time allows the flavors to develop without overpowering the delicate fish, making this dish approachable for even the novice cook.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and tangy blood orange glaze that elevates simple salmon.
Bright colors and flavors that make any meal feel special.
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Understanding Ingredients

The star of this dish, blood oranges, are not just visually appealing with their stunning hue but also bring a unique sweet-tart flavor that sets this recipe apart from traditional citrus glazes. Their juice is sweeter than regular oranges, making it a perfect complement to salmon's rich flavor. Look for blood oranges with a bright, deep red flesh and a firm texture; they should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. If blood oranges aren’t available, you can substitute with regular oranges mixed with a touch of pomegranate juice for color.

Honey plays a crucial role in the glaze, adding sweetness and aiding in the caramelization process while ensuring that the glaze clings beautifully to the salmon. For those looking to cut back on sugar, consider using agave syrup or a natural sweetener like maple syrup—these will provide a different flavor profile but still yield a delicious result. Ensure to adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference during the simmering process.

Marination Magic

Marinating the salmon is a key step that enhances the flavors significantly. Allowing the fish to soak up the glaze for at least 10 minutes gives the ingredients time to penetrate the flesh, infusing it with those vibrant citrus notes. If you’re short on time, even a quick 5-minute marination will brighten up the dish, but don’t skip this step if you can help it. To ensure that all fillets are evenly coated, consider flipping them halfway through the marination process for consistency.

If you're adhering to a gluten-free diet, simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which will provide similar umami notes without the gluten. This recipe is also easily adaptable; you could use a different protein, such as chicken breasts or tofu, which would benefit from the same sweet and tangy treatment.

Serving Suggestions

This Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, as their earthy flavors balance the vibrant glaze. Consider using seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes; roast them until they’re golden and tender to complement the meal. A grain-based side, such as quinoa or couscous, can also add a hearty element and will soak up any leftover glaze on the plate.

For an elegant touch, serve the salmon over a bed of lightly sautéed spinach or alongside a fresh citrus salad with arugula and sliced avocado, enhancing both the presentation and flavor contrasts. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts on top can add a nice crunch, creating a delightful texture to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients for Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze

4 salmon fillets
1/2 cup blood orange juice
Zest of 1 blood orange
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional for garnish)

Be sure to use fresh blood oranges for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious salmon:

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine blood orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Marinate the Salmon

Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then drizzle half of the glaze over them. Let marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated salmon fillets on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Add the Glaze

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the remaining glaze over the salmon for an extra flavor boost.

Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your beautifully glazed salmon with a side of your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of ginger or garlic to the glaze. Pairing with roasted asparagus or a bright salad complements the dish perfectly.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during busy weeknights, the blood orange glaze can be made in advance. Prepare the glaze and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a quick stir before using, as it may separate when chilled. You can also pre-portion and marinate the salmon fillets the night before; simply cover them tightly and store them in the fridge, allowing flavors to deepen overnight.

If you have leftover salmon, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F) to maintain moisture, or enjoy cold in a salad or sandwich, where the glaze adds a delightful zing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your glaze isn't thickening as desired, it might just need a few extra minutes of simmering over medium heat, stirring often until it reaches a glossy consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or additional blood orange juice to adjust the texture without compromising flavor.

For those who prefer a more intense flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the glaze. These will elevate the taste profile and provide a welcome warmth to the dish. Just be mindful of their potency—start with small amounts to ensure they complement rather than overwhelm the blood orange flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed, keeping in mind to adjust cooking time as necessary. For larger quantities of salmon, consider using an oven instead of the stovetop; bake at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through to ensure even flavor distribution.

If scaling down, remember that adjusting the glazing time and marination for one or two fillets can yield just as delicious results. Don't feel pressured to stick to the exact quantities; flexible measurements will still deliver a stellar dish without compromising the essence of the recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, regular navel oranges will work fine, but the unique flavor of blood oranges truly enhances the dish.

→ What can I serve with this salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a refreshing salad.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make this glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.