Orange-Glazed Salmon

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Living in the Pacific Northwest, we get the most amazing salmon.  And because of that, we normally will enjoy it at least a couple of times a month.  

This week our local fishmonger has Sockeye on special.  Sockeye is a super flavorful salmon but it can be mushy if it isn't just right.  So be sure to check that the filet doesn't smell fishy and the flesh is firm.  If you have a good relationship with your fishmonger, which we do, don't be afraid to ask that they pick out a good one for you.  Since we get fish every Friday, they know us and treat us right. 

Today I'm going to share an easy recipe for salmon that is a very nice change to the usual way I prepare it.  One thing I would recommend though, is baking it in an aluminum foil-lined baking dish.  If you don't, your pan is a doozy to clean up.  Or at least mine was.

Orange-Glazed Salmon

• Juice from 1 orange (about ½ C)
• zest from ½ orange
• 1 T lemon juice
• 2 T turbinado
• 1 lb salmon filet
• salt & pepper
• Optional:  1 t (or so) red pepper flakes
• Garnish: chopped chives or green onion tops

1. Combine orange juice, zest, lemon juice, and turbinado in small saucepan.  Over medium heat, simmer to thicken.  When desired thickness, take sauce off heat and allow to cool. 
2. Wash salmon filet.  Pat dry.  Place in baking dish.  If using red pepper flakes, mix those into the glaze.  Spread glaze over the top.  Sprinkle with salt & pepper. 
3.  Allow to stand for 20-30 minutes before baking. 
4. Bake at 425 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chives.

Start with a Caesar salad and serve with new red potatoes and steamed green vegetable (like broccoli, green beans or asparagus).  And since you've been good, dessert is in order.  Why not treat yourself to something wonderful like Chocolate Mousse?  Mmmmmmm.......