Name: Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish; Orange slices, for garnish

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Crispy on the edges, flaky and tender in the middle, this Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon boasts a vibrant sweet and tangy flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays. The salmon’s richness is beautifully balanced by the bright acidity of the cranberries and orange, while the rosemary adds a subtle, earthy note that ties everything together. The glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating a visually stunning and delicious crust.

This christmas salmon recipe is an excellent choice when you want a show-stopping main course without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s elegant enough for a holiday dinner, yet simple enough to prepare even on a busy weeknight. The combination of fresh ingredients and easy cooking method makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why you’ll love this Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon with Christmas Salmon Recipe

This christmas salmon recipe is ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
The cranberry glaze creates a beautiful and festive presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
The sweet and tangy flavor combination is a delicious alternative to traditional holiday dishes.
The recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients.
It’s a healthy and delicious main course option that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
The salmon is incredibly moist and flaky, thanks to the glaze that seals in the juices.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon

6 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Orange slices, for garnish

Christmas salmon recipe makes every moment feel velvety. For a deeper, richer flavor, consider using blood orange juice. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, dried rosemary can be substituted; use about 1 teaspoon. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze.

How to make Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, rosemary, orange zest, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Glaze

Cook the cranberry mixture for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Glaze and Bake

Brush the cranberry glaze generously over the salmon fillets.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Chef’s Tip: To ensure the salmon is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. It should register 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the fillet.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the salmon! It’s better to undercook it slightly, as it will continue to cook after you remove it from the oven.
For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the cranberry glaze for 30 minutes before baking.
Use high-quality salmon for the best taste and texture.
If your glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of orange juice to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

This Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Serve it alongside rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the salmon. Consider serving a refreshing beverage like sparkling cider or iced tea. Need a quick side? Try this recipe for parmesan crusted chicken while the salmon is cooking!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. For a different twist on the leftovers, try using it to make salmon patties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned cranberry sauce instead of fresh cranberries?

While fresh cranberries are preferred for their brighter flavor, you can use canned cranberry sauce in a pinch. Reduce the amount of honey in the recipe, as canned cranberry sauce is already quite sweet.

Can I freeze this salmon recipe?

It is not recommended to freeze the cooked salmon as it can affect the texture. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. The flavor profile is primarily sweet and tangy. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze if you prefer a little heat. For another fun recipe that is not spicy, try these crab rangoon pinwheels.

This Festive Cranberry-Glazed Christmas Salmon is a guaranteed showstopper for your holiday dinner. Its delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, coupled with its ease of preparation, makes it a recipe you’ll want to make year after year. The flaky, moist salmon, coated in a glistening cranberry glaze, is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Let us know in the comments how you liked it!

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