Sweet Cranberry Salmon – Tangy Healthy Dinner

This Cranberry Salmon recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Juicy salmon fillets are glazed with a vibrant cranberry sauce that adds a festive touch, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday meals. Quick, healthy, and full of flavor, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality salmon dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
• Vibrant cranberry flavor adds a festive touch
• Healthy and full of protein and omega-3s
• Elegant presentation for holiday dinners or special occasions
• Minimal cleanup with a simple baking method

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cranberry Glaze

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook 5–7 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the cranberry glaze.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon is cooked through.
6. Spoon extra glaze over the salmon before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cranberries for a tart glaze or frozen cranberries for convenience.
• Add orange zest to the glaze for extra citrus flavor.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Brush glaze on halfway through baking for a thicker coating.
• Can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for vegan sweetness.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Salmon is best served fresh; freezing is not recommended after baking.
• Reheat gently in a 350°F oven to avoid drying out the fish.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach.
• Pair with wild rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
• Drizzle remaining cranberry glaze over the side for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and glazing.

Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before brushing over salmon.

Can I bake salmon in foil packets?

Yes, baking in foil keeps salmon moist and reduces cleanup. Simply fold foil over the fillets and pour glaze inside before sealing.

What can I use instead of cranberries?

Pomegranate seeds or a mixture of raspberries and orange juice work as an alternative, providing a sweet-tart flavor.

Ready to Make It?

This Cranberry Salmon is a quick, healthy, and festive dinner that impresses with minimal effort. Sweet, tangy, and tender, it’s perfect for family meals, weeknights, or special occasions.

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