Description

This Holiday Glazed Salmon with Cranberry-Pineapple Relish is a festive and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions. The tender salmon fillets are brushed with a sweet and tangy glaze, then seared or baked to perfection. Topped with a vibrant cranberry-pineapple relish seasoned with warm spices, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and fruity flavors that make it ideal for holiday dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Glaze

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cranberry-Pineapple Relish

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup pineapple, diced
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Garnish

Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the salmon glaze: In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this glaze generously over all sides of the salmon fillets to ensure a flavorful coating.
Cook the salmon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the glazed salmon fillets skin-side down if applicable. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until the salmon is cooked through and has a golden crust. Alternatively, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the glazed fillets for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
Make the cranberry-pineapple relish: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, diced pineapple, orange juice, honey, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a relish consistency.
Assemble the dish: Plate each salmon fillet and spoon the warm cranberry-pineapple relish over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs to add a festive aroma and visual appeal.
Serve: Serve the holiday glazed salmon with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables or wild rice for a complete and satisfying holiday meal.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, marinate the salmon in the glaze for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
Fresh cranberries are preferable but frozen can be used if fresh are unavailable.
Adjust sweetness of the relish by adding more honey to taste, especially if using tart cranberries.
To ensure even cooking when pan-searing, avoid overcrowding the skillet and cook fillets in batches if necessary.
Garnish with rosemary just before serving to keep it fresh and aromatic.