Get ready for a weeknight dinner hero that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. This Honey Orange Glazed Salmon features a perfectly flaky fillet with crispy skin, all coated in a glistening, sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler. This recipe is special because of its incredible speed and the way the bright citrus, savory soy, and sweet honey create a truly irresistible flavor combination with minimal effort. It’s the perfect elegant, fuss-free meal for any night of the week when you’re craving something both healthy and deeply satisfying.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins (includes broiling time)
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
For the Honey Orange Glazed Salmon:
- 2 (6-oz) Salmon Fillets, skin-on
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Orange Juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp Honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce or tamari
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Orange Zest
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- Salt and Black Pepper
- 2 cups Mixed Greens, for serving
Instructions:
- Position & Preheat: Place an oven rack about 6 inches from the top heating element and preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel. This is the key to getting that delicious crispy skin. Place the fillets skin-down on the prepared baking sheet, rub them with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, orange zest, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Glaze the Salmon: Spoon or brush about half of the glaze mixture evenly over the top of the salmon fillets.
- Broil First Pass: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 4-5 minutes. The glaze will begin to bubble and caramelize.
- Glaze Again: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Spoon or brush the remaining glaze over the salmon.
- Finish Broiling: Return the pan to the broiler and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and lightly charred in spots. Keep a very close eye on it, as the honey can cause the glaze to burn quickly.
- Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium.
- Rest and Serve: Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving. Plate it alongside fresh mixed greens for a simple, complete meal. Enjoy immediately!
Recipe Notes:
- Watch it Closely: Broilers vary in intensity. Your salmon could be done in as little as 6 minutes or take up to 10. Stay near the oven, especially during the last few minutes, to prevent the glaze from burning.
- Crispy Skin Secret: Patting the salmon very dry before oiling is crucial. A dry surface allows the skin to get wonderfully crisp under the high heat instead of steaming.
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Maple syrup is an excellent substitute for honey and provides a slightly different, delicious flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s moist and tender. It will continue to cook slightly from residual heat after you remove it from the oven, so it’s better to pull it a moment early than a moment too late.
- Serving Suggestions: This salmon is fantastic with a simple side of steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted asparagus. Drizzle any extra pan juices over the top for even more flavor.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through to avoid drying it out.
There you have it – an incredibly fast, flavorful, and beautiful salmon dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This Honey Orange Glazed Salmon will quickly become a favorite for its simplicity and restaurant-quality taste. We hope you enjoy this vibrant and satisfying dish! Happy cooking!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 485; Protein: 40g; Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 6g); Carbohydrates: 17g (Sugar: 15g); Sodium: 650mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
