Imagine transforming a simple salmon fillet into a gourmet masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This Salmon Fillets with Leeks and Orange Glaze recipe is your ticket to an elegant, restaurant-style meal that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to prepare. With a perfect balance of crispy salmon, sweet-tangy orange glaze, and tender leeks, this dish promises to elevate your home cooking game and impress even the most discerning dinner guests.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 leek, sliced
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by thoroughly washing the leek and slicing it into thin half-rings. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice and honey to create the glaze, ensuring it's well combined and smooth.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced leeks and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent.
- Push the leeks to one side of the skillet and place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the empty space. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and golden.
- Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Pour the orange-honey glaze over the salmon and leeks, allowing it to caramelize slightly and coat the fish for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer the salmon and leeks to serving plates, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before cooking to ensure a crispy, golden skin that will make your dish look professionally prepared.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon - 145°F is the perfect doneness for a moist, flaky texture.
- Don't rush the leek sautéing process. Cooking them slowly allows their natural sweetness to develop and creates a delicious base for your salmon.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of fresh thyme or a splash of white wine to the orange-honey glaze.
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with vibrant color and a clean, ocean-like smell for the best results.
- Let the salmon rest for a minute after cooking to help retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
