Christmas dinner often conjures images of roasted turkeys or succulent hams, right? But what if we told you there’s a dazzling, equally impressive, and surprisingly easy alternative that will make your holiday table sparkle? Enter our Festive Cranberry-Orange Glazed Salmon! This dish isn’t just about delicious flavors; it’s about adding a touch of elegance and a burst of seasonal cheer without the usual holiday cooking stress.
Imagine a beautifully roasted salmon fillet, its flaky flesh infused with bright, citrusy notes, and topped with a glistening, tangy-sweet cranberry-orange glaze. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, offering a lighter, yet utterly satisfying, counterpoint to heavier holiday fare. Plus, it cooks up much faster than a traditional roast, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones and less time hovering over the stove. If you’re looking for a truly foolproof way to prepare your fish, check out our comprehensive baked salmon recipe for all the foundational techniques.
This recipe marries the vibrant flavors of winter – tart cranberries and zesty oranges – with the rich, buttery goodness of salmon. The glaze is incredibly simple to whip up, yet it delivers complex layers of sweet, tangy, and subtly savory notes, thanks to a hint of Dijon mustard and fresh herbs. It’s the kind of dish that looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but can be on your table in under an hour, making it perfect for both intimate family dinners and larger holiday gatherings. Indeed, this dish is a shining example of how festive feasts can be both elegant and easy, bringing joy to your holiday spread.
And for those who appreciate perfectly seasoned fish, a key step is ensuring your salmon is properly salted. Learning how to salt salmon can really elevate the overall flavor profile of this dish, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. This holiday season, step outside the box and let this Cranberry-Orange Glazed Salmon be the star of your Christmas menu. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and oh-so-festive – guaranteed to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
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4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
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1/2 cup fresh cranberries
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1 large orange (zested and juiced)
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2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic (minced)
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped (or 1 tsp dried))
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more for seasoning)
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Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice crust. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, orange zest, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly. You can gently mash some of the cranberries with the back of a spoon if you like a smoother glaze. Stir in the chopped fresh rosemary.
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush about half of the cranberry-orange glaze generously over the top of each salmon fillet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is nearly cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your fillets.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Brush the remaining glaze over the salmon fillets. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze is beautifully caramelized and the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness (internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C).
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary, if desired, and serve warm.
💡 Tips
- Don't overcook the salmon! It's best when still slightly moist in the center. A meat thermometer is your best friend here.
- Patting the salmon dry before seasoning and glazing helps create a better surface for caramelization and crispiness.
- For extra flavor, let the salmon marinate in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- If you want to add roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes) to this meal, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them on the same baking sheet for 20-25 minutes. Add them to the oven when you start the salmon.
- If using frozen cranberries, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.
🎨 Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the salmon after glazing for added texture.
- Citrus Swap: Try lime or lemon instead of orange for a slightly different citrus profile.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or dill in the glaze.
- Different Fish: This glaze works wonderfully with other flaky white fish like cod, halibut, or even chicken breasts.
📊 Nutrition
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure they are completely thawed before patting dry and seasoning. For best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I make the cranberry-orange glaze ahead of time?
Definitely! The glaze can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before using.
What are good side dishes to serve with this salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, wild rice pilaf, or a simple holiday salad. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up any extra glaze!
Is skin-on or skin-off salmon better for this recipe?
Either works! Skin-on salmon can offer a crispier bottom layer if cooked properly, but skin-off is just as delicious and often preferred for easier serving.
There you have it – a show-stopping Christmas main course that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat! This Sparkling Cranberry-Orange Glazed Salmon is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Give it a try this holiday season and let us know how it brightens your festive table! Happy cooking!
