Name: Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: PT-491003H1S
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs salmon (whole side or filets); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups pomegranate juice; ¼ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1 orange); 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange); Pomegranate seeds for garnish; Orange slices for garnish; Fresh parsley for garnish; Sliced green onions or scallions for garnish

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This Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze is a stunning and flavorful main dish that brings festive elegance to the holiday table. The tender baked salmon is brushed with a sweet and tangy glaze made from pomegranate juice and fresh orange, then finished with vibrant garnishes like pomegranate seeds, orange slices, and herbs. It’s the kind of dish I love serving when I want something special yet simple to prepare.

Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs salmon (whole side or filets)

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups pomegranate juice

¼ cup brown sugar

¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1 orange)

1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange)

Pomegranate seeds for garnish

Orange slices for garnish

Fresh parsley for garnish

Sliced green onions or scallions for garnish

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 300°F (150°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

I place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared sheet and season it evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, I combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest.

I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrup-like glaze.

I brush the thickened glaze generously over the salmon, making sure it’s well coated.

The salmon goes into the oven and bakes for 30–38 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily.

I carefully transfer the salmon to a serving platter and garnish it with pomegranate seeds, fresh orange slices, chopped parsley, and green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 people, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Prep Time: 35 minutes

Cooking Time: 30–38 minutes

Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes

Calories: Approximately 222 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the salmon for steelhead trout for a slightly different texture and flavor.

If I want extra spice, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze while it reduces.

For a citrus-forward version, I add a splash of lemon juice in place of half the orange juice.

I’ve also garnished with fresh mint for a more aromatic twist.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover the salmon with foil and warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, about 10–15 minutes. I avoid microwaving to maintain the texture and moisture of the fish. The glaze can also be stored separately and drizzled over reheated portions.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make the pomegranate glaze?

I like to make the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. I just reheat it gently before brushing it over the salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I’ve used frozen salmon before—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and glazing.

What sides go well with this Christmas salmon?

I usually serve it with roasted root vegetables, wild rice, or a citrusy green salad. Creamy mashed potatoes also pair nicely.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh is best for flavor, but if I’m in a pinch, bottled orange juice without added sugar will work fine.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

I check that the thickest part of the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

This Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze is a festive, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish that I turn to when I want to impress without stress. It’s ideal for holiday entertaining and leaves plenty of room for creativity with garnishes and sides. With its bright colors and bold flavors, it always earns a spot at the center of my holiday table.

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Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze is a festive and elegant main dish featuring tender baked salmon brushed with a sweet and tangy pomegranate-orange glaze. Garnished with fresh herbs and fruit, it’s a stunning centerpiece perfect for holiday gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared sheet and season with kosher salt and black pepper.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrup-like glaze.
Brush the thickened glaze generously over the salmon to coat it well.
Bake the salmon for 30–38 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily.
Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and garnish with pomegranate seeds, orange slices, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions.