Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 12 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
450 | 27g | 6g | 10g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
9g | 2g | 37g | 0.90g |
Why I Love Spanish Orange Salmon
There’s something intensely satisfying about the marriage of sweet and savory—a dance of flavors that consistently enthralls the palate, as is the case with the beloved Orange Salmon recipe. The first time I discovered this recipe, it delighted me to the core. Coming from a background that vouches for an intermix of flavors (growing up in California while savoring the Gujarati cuisine), it’s recipes like these that make me revel in the act of cooking.
Not Just Any Salmon Recipe
What makes this recipe the go-to option for a weekday dinner or a weekend feast is the amalgamation of distinct flavors. Taking inspiration from Jamie Oliver’s fusion recipes, the Orange Salmon recipe infuses a splash of Mediterranean charm into a traditional seafood dish. The essence of orange brightens the robust flavors of salmon fillets—in fact, think of it like our own rendition of the classic Duck à l’Orange but with a riveting twist of aromatic spices.
Balancing Flavors
The Orange Salmon recipe is just about balance. The rich, fatty salmon is offset beautifully by the acidity from the orange—resulting in a dish that is light yet satisfying. Then you have the distinct aroma of garlic, the subtle sweetness that comes with orange zest, and familiar herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that sets it apart.
Given its Spanish origin, this dish pairs wonderfully with Paella Rice with Tomatoes and Green Beans or a refreshing Gazpacho. The citrusy delight also works great with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad, echoing the freshness synonymous with Californian cuisine.
Inspiration Drawn and Served
Part of the joy in cooking lies in the reinvention of flavors—in introducing a component of your culture in a dish that draws from another. Like a true Californian, I took heart in introducing the zestiness of oranges to a straightforward salmon recipe, an element that echoes the culinary practices of my Gujarati heritage where tangy flavors are much loved.
So whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, rest assured that the Orange Salmon dish is one that creates an impression, a melody of flavors that is remembered long after the last forkful is savored.
What You’ll Need
- 6 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 3 large oranges, sliced into rounds for serving
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Two
Prepare the orange sauce by stirring together the grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, minced garlic, dried basil, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
Step Three
Pour the orange sauce over the salmon fillets evenly. Make sure each fillet is well coated with the sauce.
Step Four
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven, and bake the salmon for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your preferred doneness.
Step Five
Just before the salmon is done, sprinkle it with chopped fresh parsley, and garnish with the sliced orange rounds. Return the salmon to the oven for about 2-3 minutes.
Step Six
Remove the salmon from the oven, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to fully absorb into the salmon. Serve the orange salmon warm, and enjoy its delicious and refreshing taste.