Holiday Glazed Salmon with Cranberries

When it comes to celebrating the holiday season, nothing makes a festive centerpiece like this Holiday Glazed Salmon with Cranberries. The sweet and tangy cranberry glaze pairs beautifully with tender, flaky salmon, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet light. If you’re looking for a holiday recipe that’s equal parts elegance and ease, this is the one for you!

Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe, what you’ll need, and how to make it.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Glazed Salmon Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: The cranberry glaze is a magical mix of sweet honey, tangy balsamic vinegar, and umami-rich soy sauce, perfectly balanced with garlic and ginger.
2. Festive Presentation: Bright cranberry red against golden salmon makes this a showstopper on any holiday table.
3. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant-rich cranberries, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious.
4. Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy holiday schedules.

What Does Holiday Glazed Salmon Taste Like?

This dish is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. The cranberries add a tart brightness, while honey and balsamic vinegar provide a rich depth. The salmon itself is tender and moist, with a golden crust from the sear. The final drizzle of cranberry glaze ties everything together for a perfect bite every time.

Ingredients for Holiday Glazed Salmon

To make this festive dish, gather the following ingredients:

• Salmon Fillets: 4 fillets, about 6 oz each
• Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup (frozen cranberries can work in a pinch!)
• Honey: 1/4 cup for sweetness
• Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tbsp for a tangy depth
• Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp for a savory punch
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tbsp for a hint of sharpness
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp for aromatic flavor
• Ground Ginger: 1/2 tsp for warmth
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for searing
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): 1/4 cup, chopped
• Lemon Wedges: For serving

Tools You’ll Need

• A small saucepan for preparing the glaze
• A large oven-safe skillet for searing and baking the salmon
• A spatula for flipping the fillets
• A zester or juicer for prepping lemon wedges (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Holiday Glazed Salmon

1. Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Heat over medium, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 10-12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Sear the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear each fillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

3. Bake the Salmon

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

4. Glaze and Finish

During the last 2-3 minutes of baking, spoon the cranberry glaze over the salmon fillets. This allows the glaze to caramelize slightly for added flavor.

5. Plate and Garnish

Remove the salmon from the oven. Drizzle with any remaining cranberry glaze and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.

What to Serve with Holiday Glazed Salmon

This festive salmon pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture balances the tangy glaze.
• Steamed Green Beans with Almonds: Adds a fresh crunch to the plate.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Complements the earthy and sweet flavors of the dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and slightly nutty, they round out the meal beautifully.

Pro Tips for Perfect Holiday Glazed Salmon

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: For moist and tender fillets, remove the salmon from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cranberry glaze as it cooks and tweak the honey or balsamic vinegar to your preference.
• Double the Glaze: If you love extra sauce for serving, double the glaze recipe!
• Nonstick Skillet: Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent the salmon from sticking during the sear.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Thaw frozen salmon completely and pat dry before cooking for the best results.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cranberry glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work just as well. If unavailable, substitute with a mix of dried cranberries and water, though the texture will vary slightly.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Sear the salmon on a hot grill for about 4 minutes per side, brushing on the glaze as it cooks.

A Holiday Feast to Remember

This Holiday Glazed Salmon with Cranberries is the perfect way to bring a little elegance and festive flair to your holiday table. Its combination of bold flavors and vibrant colors is sure to impress your guests while leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the celebrations.

For more cranberry-inspired recipes to elevate your holiday menu, check out these delightful options:

• Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme
• Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl: The Perfect Festive Appetizer
• Puff Pastry Brie Bites

Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest and tag me—I love seeing your festive dishes come to life!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 16g

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