Pomegranate Glazed Salmon

Looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on your usual salmon dinner? This Pomegranate Glazed Salmon brings together the tang of pomegranate, the sweetness of honey, and a hint of heat from chili flakes to create a beautifully balanced glaze. It’s the perfect dish to impress at any gathering or elevate a simple weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 2-4 salmon fillets (about 1½ lbs total)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pomegranate Glaze:

• ¼ cup pomegranate juice (about half a pomegranate)

• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pomegranate Juice: Begin by peeling the pomegranate and carefully removing the seeds. Add the seeds to a blender or food processor and pulse until the juice is extracted. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to separate the juice from the pulp. You should have about ¼ cup of pomegranate juice.

2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Make the Pomegranate Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the pomegranate juice, honey (or maple syrup), balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, chili flakes, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and allow the glaze to reduce and thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Brush and Bake: Generously brush the salmon fillets with the glaze. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque in the center and easily flake with a fork.

6. Finish with Glaze: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush on any remaining glaze. If you like a more caramelized finish, broil the salmon for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Serve: Serve the salmon on a platter and drizzle with the leftover glaze. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.

This Pomegranate Glazed Salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a warm quinoa salad. The sweet and savory glaze brings out the rich flavors of the salmon, while the touch of chili flakes adds just the right amount of heat. A perfect balance of flavor and nutrition in every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The pomegranate glaze adds a burst of color and flavor, making this dish not only delicious but beautiful to serve.

• Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of ingredients come together for a savory dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and antioxidants from the pomegranate, this dish supports heart health and overall well-being.

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Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for general informational purposes only. Always check for allergens and consult a healthcare professional for any dietary concerns. I am not legally accountable for any adverse reactions.