Description
A festive and flavorful Christmas Salmon recipe featuring tender baked Atlantic salmon glazed with a sweet and tangy pomegranate reduction, garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds, orange slices, parsley, and green onions. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 2 lbs. whole Atlantic salmon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pomegranate Glaze
- 2 cups pomegranate juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Garnishes
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Orange slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare salmon: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the whole Atlantic salmon skin-side down on the baking sheet and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Make the pomegranate glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pomegranate juice, brown sugar, fresh squeezed orange juice, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens into a syrup-like consistency.
- Glaze the salmon: Using a brush, generously coat the salmon with the reduced pomegranate glaze, ensuring the surface is well covered to impart sweetness and flavor.
- Bake the salmon: Place the glazed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 38 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), which ensures the fish is cooked through but remains moist and tender.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds, orange slices, chopped fresh parsley, and sliced green onions to add color, texture, and a burst of fresh flavor for that festive holiday presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to guarantee food safety and optimal texture.
- Simmer the pomegranate glaze slowly to achieve the perfect syrupy thickness without burning the sugars.
- Garnishes such as fresh parsley and green onions add brightness and a fresh crunch that complements the glaze’s sweetness.
- Use fresh pomegranate juice if possible for a more vibrant flavor.
- This recipe works well with other types of salmon or firm fish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Christmas Salmon, Pomegranate Glaze, Holiday Salmon Recipe, Baked Salmon, Festive Fish Dish
