Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze

Name: Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/2 cup blood orange juice; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Blood orange slices; Chopped fresh parsley

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love how the vibrant flavors of blood oranges elevate a simple salmon dish to something truly special. This recipe captures the perfect balance of sweet and savory, resulting in a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. I've found that marinating the salmon in the glaze not only infuses it with bold flavor but also keeps it incredibly moist. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy my cravings for both healthy and delicious meals.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:52:08.436Z

When I first tried this combination of salmon and blood orange, I was amazed at how well the fruity tang paired with the richness of the fish. The key is to allow the salmon to marinate in the blood orange glaze for at least 15 minutes, which not only deepens the flavor but also adds a lovely glisten to the finished dish.

I've experimented with various citrus glazes, but nothing has compared to the unique flavor profile of blood oranges. They give the dish a stunning splash of color and a refreshing zest that complements the salmon perfectly. Serve it with a side of asparagus for an elegant yet simple meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich blood orange flavor that brightens up the dish
Perfectly caramelized salmon with a beautiful glaze
Healthy and satisfying meal that’s easy to make

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is the blood orange, which not only brings a unique flavor but also a striking color that enhances the presentation. Its natural sweetness plays beautifully against the savory notes of soy sauce, creating a complex glaze. When selecting blood oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size; this usually indicates juiciness. Fresh ginger adds a warming spice that brightens the overall flavor profile, making the dish both refreshing and rich.

While this recipe focuses on the specific combination of blood oranges and salmon, feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits if needed. For example, a mix of grapefruit and orange can provide a similar balance of sweetness and acidity. Additionally, if you prefer a low-sodium option, consider using coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce, which will maintain that umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Baking the salmon at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving a perfectly cooked fillet with caramelized edges. You want to remove the salmon from the oven when it reaches an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C) for best results. It should flake easily with a fork but not look dry or overcooked. If your salmon fillets are particularly thick or thin, adjust the baking time accordingly; thinner fillets may require only 12-15 minutes.

If you want to elevate the texture even further, consider broiling the salmon in the last few minutes of cooking to develop a crispy exterior. Just keep a close eye on it, as broilers can quickly turn perfectly cooked fish into a charred version in seconds. Keeping the glaze thick is essential as it will contribute to that desired sticky finish, so ensure to reserve some for brushing on top during the final moments of cooking.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
1/2 cup blood orange juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

Blood orange slices
Chopped fresh parsley

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

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the blood orange juice, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Salmon

Transfer the marinated salmon fillets to a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Garnish with fresh blood orange slices and parsley. Enjoy your meal!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or rice.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade or sprinkling sesame seeds over the finished dish.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the salmon and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of cooking to maintain its moist texture. When reheating, avoid the microwave, as this can dry it out; instead, use a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) to warm it gently for about 10 minutes. This will help retain the integrity of the fish while allowing the glaze to warm up.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing your marinated salmon before cooking. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. This method will keep the salmon fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and make sure to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw fish for food safety reasons.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this salmon dish with sides is an excellent way to create a complete meal. Consider serving it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which absorbs the glaze wonderfully. A fresh salad with arugula, avocado, and a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the rich salmon, enhancing the overall meal experience. You can also lean into the citrus theme by including sliced cucumbers marinated in blood orange juice for a refreshing side dish.

For a touch of luxury, add a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt on top of the salmon just before serving. The creaminess will balance the glaze's sweetness and add a delightful richness. Experiment with herbs, too; dill or cilantro can provide fresh notes that lift the flavors, making every bite more exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of citrus instead of blood orange?

Yes! You can substitute with regular orange, lemon, or lime, but the flavor will differ.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.

→ What side dishes go well with this salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad are great options to serve alongside.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.