Orange Roasted Salmon: An Elegant Citrus Delight

Overview

Prepare to impress your guests with this stunning Orange Roasted Salmon, a dish that marries the vibrant flavors of citrus with the rich, tender texture of fresh salmon. This recipe, adapted from a Spice Islands original, allows you to do most of the work in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. The subtle orange flavor combined with a hint of lemon, garlic, and parsley creates a symphony of tastes that is both healthy and elegant, especially when paired with a fresh leafy salad, fluffy brown rice, and lightly sautéed asparagus.

Recipe Details

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:

Instructions

Embark on a culinary adventure by following these step-by-step instructions for preparing your Orange Roasted Salmon:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), setting the stage for the perfect roast.

2. Prepare the Herb Mixture
   In a small dish, combine 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic granules, and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. This aromatic blend will enhance the flavors of your salmon.

3. Arrange the Orange Slices
   Lay the sliced oranges from one orange in a single layer at the bottom of a 13 x 9 inch glass baking dish. This vibrant base will infuse the salmon with delightful citrus notes.

4. Layer with Onion
   Add the sliced onion on top of the orange layer, creating a colorful base that adds both flavor and texture.

5. Drizzle and Season
   Generously drizzle 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil over the orange and onion mixture. Sprinkle 1/2 of the herb mixture over the top, ensuring an even distribution to maximize flavor.

6. Roast the Mixture
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 25 minutes. You will know it’s ready when the onions are browned and tender, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.

7. Increase Oven Temperature
   After roasting, remove the dish from the oven. Raise the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the final baking step.

8. Prepare for the Salmon
   Carefully push the onion and orange slices to the sides of the dish to create a space in the center. This will be the perfect resting place for your salmon fillets.

9. Add the Salmon
   Place the salmon fillets in the center of the baking dish. Use the remaining herb mixture to sprinkle evenly over the fillets, enhancing their flavor profile.

10. Spoon the Orange and Onion
    Spoon the roasted orange and onion slices back over the salmon, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks.

11. Create the Citrus Glaze
    In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed juice from the remaining orange, 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey. This glaze will add a touch of sweetness and a citrus kick to your salmon.

12. Pour the Glaze
    Drizzle the orange juice mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. The sweetness of the honey and the tang of the citrus will create a wonderful balance.

13. Final Roast
    Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 12 to 15 minutes. You will know the salmon is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork.

14. Discard the Cooked Oranges
    Once the salmon is done, carefully discard the cooked orange slices from the dish, leaving behind the flavorful onions and the beautifully glazed salmon.

15. Serve and Enjoy
    To serve, plate the salmon alongside the roasted onions, garnishing with the uncooked orange slices for an added visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a leafy salad, fluffy brown rice, and sautéed asparagus for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Salmon Selection: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Advance Preparation: You can prepare the orange and onion layer in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before roasting.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish is versatile; serve it with your favorite sides, like quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad to complement the citrus flavors.

With its stunning presentation and harmonious blend of flavors, this Orange Roasted Salmon is sure to become a favorite in your household, a dish that combines health, elegance, and deliciousness in every bite. Enjoy creating this culinary masterpiece and sharing it with your loved ones!