Prepare to impress even the most discerning palates with this sensational Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa. This recipe consistently earns rave reviews for its sophisticated flavors and effortless preparation, proving that elegance doesn’t have to mean complication. It’s so good, it even won over my notoriously picky husband!

While my husband savored every bite of the perfectly cooked Orange Glazed Salmon, the bright and zesty tropical fruit salsa was a delightful indulgence just for me. This dish strikes a remarkable balance between sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a truly unforgettable meal that can be cooked on the grill or in the oven.

Exquisite Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa: A Gourmet Meal Made Easy

Are you searching for a healthy, flavorful, and impressive main course that’s surprisingly simple to prepare? Look no further than this incredible Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa. This recipe transforms ordinary salmon into a culinary masterpiece, combining a rich, savory glaze with a refreshing, vibrant fruit salsa. It’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even an elegant Ash Wednesday meal, offering a delightful twist on classic seafood that promises to please everyone at the table.

Why This Glazed Salmon Recipe Is a Must-Try

This particular glazed salmon recipe stands out for several compelling reasons, making it an absolute must-try for any home cook looking to elevate their culinary repertoire without the fuss:

• A Picky Eater’s Revelation: This recipe comes highly recommended from my dear foodie friend, Kate. She confessed that it was the very first fresh salmon dish her husband, known for his selective palate, genuinely enjoyed. If it can win over a skeptical eater, imagine how much you and your family will adore it! This universal appeal is a testament to its perfectly balanced flavors.
• Restaurant-Worthy Presentation at Home: The addition of a colorful, fresh tropical fruit salsa instantly elevates this dish from simple home cooking to a stunning culinary creation. It requires minimal extra effort but creates a visual impact worthy of any gourmet restaurant. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to an elegant meal.
• Perfect Flavor Harmony: Salmon, with its naturally rich and buttery texture, finds its ideal counterpart in the sweet and tangy orange glaze. This harmonious blend of flavors ensures each bite is succulent, bright, and incredibly satisfying, without being overly heavy. The sweetness of the glaze beautifully complements the natural richness of the fish, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
• Effortless Elegance: Despite its gourmet appearance and taste, this recipe is remarkably straightforward to prepare. It’s designed for ease, allowing you to achieve impressive results without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, clear steps, and a stress-free cooking process define this elegant dish.
• Healthy and Nutritious Powerhouse: Salmon is renowned for being a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins (like B12 and D), and high-quality protein. Paired with a vibrant fruit salsa packed with antioxidants and fiber, this meal is not only delicious but also a fantastic choice for supporting a healthy lifestyle.

My friendship with Kate, a wonderful local food blogger behind Kate’s Kitchen, blossomed from a serendipitous online connection. Since our initial meeting, we’ve shared countless culinary adventures, from fabulous parties to memorable dinners with her hilarious husband, and even spontaneous encounters around town. Through it all, I’ve had the pleasure of cooking and enjoying many of her fantastic recipes. She raved about this particular glazed salmon, and I eagerly awaited a rare, rain-free evening this spring to fire up the grill and create her much-praised Glazed Salmon with Fruit Salsa myself. It was an instant favorite that quickly earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation!

Ingredient Notes: Crafting Perfection with Quality Ingredients

The success of any truly great recipe lies in the quality and freshness of its components. For this Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa, selecting vibrant, high-quality ingredients is paramount to unlocking its full, exquisite flavor potential. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each element is crucial:

• Salmon Fillets: Always opt for the freshest, highest quality salmon you can find. I recommend 6-8 ounce salmon fillets, ideally with the skin on. The skin helps protect the delicate flesh from overcooking, keeping the fish wonderfully moist, and crisps up beautifully on the grill or in the oven, adding a delightful texture. Look for firm, bright pink or orange flesh and a fresh, mild sea scent – avoid any fishy odors. Wild-caught varieties like Sockeye or King salmon often boast a richer flavor and firmer texture, while sustainably farmed Atlantic salmon are also excellent choices.
• Essential Kitchen Staples for the Marinade:
  • Soy Sauce: This provides a crucial umami depth, forming a savory and slightly salty foundation for the marinade. It penetrates the salmon, infusing it with layers of flavor. Consider a good quality, low-sodium soy sauce if you are mindful of salt intake.
  • Granulated Sugar: A small amount of sugar works wonders to balance the savory notes of the soy sauce and lemon, creating a more rounded flavor profile. Crucially, it aids in the beautiful caramelization of the glaze during cooking, contributing to that irresistible golden-brown finish.
  • Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a sophisticated, tangy kick and a slight spiciness that mellows wonderfully as the salmon cooks. Its emulsifying properties also help bind the marinade ingredients together, ensuring an even coating on the fish.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: This is a non-negotiable ingredient for optimal flavor. Always, and I mean always, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice simply cannot compare in terms of its bright, vibrant, and zesty notes. The fresh acidity is vital for cutting through the richness of the salmon and adding a refreshing dimension to the marinade and overall dish.
• Orange Marmalade: This is the secret star of our extraordinary glaze. A good quality orange marmalade, such as the Bon Maman brand recommended, provides a delightful combination of sweet, citrusy, and subtly bitter notes. When heated, it caramelizes into a glossy, sticky coating that seals in moisture and adds an incredible depth of flavor to the salmon.
• Diced Pineapple: The backbone of our tropical salsa. Pineapple brings a fantastic balance of sweetness and tartness, along with a juicy, refreshing texture. For efficiency and uniform pieces, a “Chop Wizard” or similar kitchen gadget can be incredibly helpful for dicing fruits and vegetables.
• Diced Kiwi: Adds a beautiful pop of vibrant green color and a unique sweet-tart flavor, providing a pleasing textural contrast to the other fruits in the salsa.
• Diced Mango: Ripe mangoes contribute a luscious sweetness and creamy texture that are essential for a truly tropical salsa. Ensure your mangoes are ripe – they should be yellow or orange (avoiding green, unripe ones) and yield slightly to a gentle squeeze, with a fragrant aroma near the stem.
• Diced Strawberries: Offer a burst of fresh, sweet-tart flavor and vibrant red color, making the salsa even more visually appealing and adding a familiar fruity comfort.
• Red Bell Pepper: Finely diced red bell pepper adds a lovely crunch, a hint of sweetness, and another layer of vivid color to the salsa. Aim to dice it into pieces similar in size to the fruit for aesthetic consistency and even distribution of flavor and texture.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These introduce a customizable kick of heat to the salsa. You can adjust the amount to your personal preference – a little goes a long way to add an exciting warmth without overwhelming the delicate fruit flavors.
• Champagne Vinegar or Lime Juice (for salsa): Either option provides the crucial acidity needed to brighten the salsa, enhance the natural flavors of the fruit, and prevent it from tasting flat. Champagne vinegar offers a delicate, slightly fruity tang, while fresh lime juice provides a more classic, zesty tropical twist.
• Sugar (to taste for salsa): Depending on the natural ripeness and inherent sweetness of your chosen fruits, you may or may not need to add additional sugar to the salsa. Always taste the salsa first, and then add sugar gradually as needed to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile that highlights the freshness of the fruit.

How to Make Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create an extraordinary meal. Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your succulent glazed salmon and vibrant tropical fruit salsa, bringing a taste of gourmet dining right into your home kitchen:

• Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Marinade: Begin by combining the soy sauce, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shallow dish or a durable zip-top bag. Whisk or shake until all ingredients are well combined. This simple yet incredibly flavorful mixture will infuse your salmon with a wonderful savory, tangy, and subtly sweet base.
• Step 2: Marinate the Salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillets into the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes. This short marinating time is ideal for infusing maximum flavor without compromising the delicate texture of the fish. Remember, avoid marinating for longer than an hour, as the acidity from the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the delicate proteins in the salmon, potentially leading to a mushy or undesirable texture.
• Step 3: Apply the Orange Glaze: Once the salmon has finished marinating, remove it from the mixture, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Lightly brush the top of each fillet with approximately one tablespoon of good quality orange marmalade. This step is crucial for developing that beautiful caramelized crust and imparting a delicious sweet-citrusy flavor during cooking.
• Step 4: Cook to Perfection (Grill or Oven):
  • Grilling Method: If the weather is cooperating, grilling imparts a fantastic smoky flavor and beautiful sear marks. Preheat your grill to indirect medium heat. Place the marmalade-glazed salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook until they reach your desired doneness. The marmalade will caramelize beautifully, so keep a close eye on the fish to prevent it from burning.
  • Oven Baking Method: For an equally delicious and convenient oven-baked version, preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (232°C). Place the glazed salmon fillets on a grill pan or in a cast-iron skillet (or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper). Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. A general rule of thumb is 10 minutes of cooking time per inch of salmon thickness.
• Step 5: Prepare the Tropical Fruit Salsa: While the salmon is marinating or cooking, dedicate your attention to crafting the vibrant fruit salsa. The most time-consuming part here is the chopping, so aim for uniformly sized, small dices for all the fruits and the red bell pepper for the best presentation and balanced texture. In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced pineapple, kiwi, mango, strawberries, and red bell pepper. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar (or fresh lime juice), crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of sugar (if you deem it necessary after tasting the fruit). Gently pour this dressing over the fruit mixture and fold everything together until well combined.
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully transfer the fillets to individual serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of the fresh, bright tropical fruit salsa over each glazed salmon fillet before serving. The delightful contrast between the warm, savory, and sweet salmon and the cool, vibrant, and tangy salsa is truly a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Recipe Tips for Flawless Glazed Salmon and Fruit Salsa

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon and a vibrant, well-balanced salsa is easier than you think with these expert tips. Keep these insights in mind to ensure your dish is consistently nothing short of spectacular, impressing both family and friends:

• Versatile Cooking Methods: This glazed salmon recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it suitable for any kitchen setup. You can confidently roast, broil, or grill it to perfection. Each method imparts a unique texture and flavor profile to the salmon, so choose whichever you prefer or is most convenient for you. Grilling offers a smoky char, broiling provides quick caramelization, and roasting ensures even, gentle cooking.
• PRO-Tip: The Golden Rule of Marination: Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes to allow the rich, savory, and tangy flavors from the soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to deeply infuse the fish. However, it’s crucial not to exceed 60 minutes. The acidity from the lemon juice, if left too long, can begin to “cook” or denature the delicate proteins in the salmon, potentially leading to a less desirable, mushy texture. Precision in marination time is key!
• Watch the Glaze Like a Hawk: Once you’ve applied the irresistible orange marmalade glaze, keep a very close eye on the fish during cooking, especially if you’re grilling or broiling. The natural sugars in the marmalade can transition from beautifully caramelized and golden-brown to completely burnt in a matter of seconds. A glossy, slightly sticky, golden crust is what you’re aiming for – so stay vigilant!
• PRO-Tip: Perfect Doneness Every Time: The secret to succulent, flaky salmon lies in cooking it to just the right temperature. For optimal food safety, the FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Always use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet to ensure accurate readings. For those who prefer a slightly more tender, medium-rare finish, reputable culinary sources like Cook’s Illustrated suggest pulling high-quality, wild salmon off the heat at 120°F (49°C), as it will continue to cook slightly from residual heat (carryover cooking).
• Source the Freshest Salmon: For the absolute best flavor and texture, make it a priority to purchase your salmon on the day you plan to cook it. Freshness makes an enormous difference. Furthermore, always buy the highest quality salmon your budget allows. Superior quality fish will significantly impact the final taste, texture, and overall enjoyment of your dish.
• Selecting Ripe Mangoes: When choosing mangoes for your tropical salsa, look for those that are predominantly yellow or orange in color (avoiding green ones, which indicate immaturity). A ripe mango will also yield slightly to gentle pressure and emit a fragrant, sweet aroma near the stem. The sweetness of ripe mangoes is essential for a balanced salsa.
• Uniform Dicing for Salsa: For the most appealing presentation and a consistent, delightful texture in every bite, take the time to dice all the fruits and the red bell pepper for the salsa into similar-sized, small cubes. This attention to detail elevates the dish’s visual appeal and ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures.
• Salsa Variations to Explore: Don’t hesitate to customize your salsa based on seasonal availability or personal preference! If fresh mangoes are out of season or difficult to find, cantaloupe makes a delightful and equally refreshing substitute. Alternatively, you can simply omit the mango and increase the quantities of the other fruits. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs like finely chopped cilantro or mint for an extra layer of aromatic flavor. A small amount of finely diced red onion can also add a subtle pungent kick.
• Ideal Serving Suggestions: This vibrant Glazed Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa pairs beautifully with a variety of complementary sides. Consider serving it alongside fluffy white or brown rice, light and nutritious quinoa, fluffy couscous, perfectly roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. These accompaniments will help complete your gourmet meal.
• Storage and Reheating: Leftover cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The fruit salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored separately for a day. Reheat salmon gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

You May Also Love These Seafood Recipes

My husband, Bill, thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic glazed salmon dish – though, as predicted, he didn’t even consider sampling the tropical salsa, leaving more of that zesty goodness for me to savor! My friend, Tom, loved it so much that he immediately asked for the recipe. He even packed a ziplock bag complete with marinade and a fillet to grill dinner at a friend’s house, knowing his friends would undoubtedly inquire about such a delicious creation. It’s truly a wonderful and widely appealing salmon recipe, and I’m already looking forward to making this glazed salmon again and again. A huge thanks to Kate for sharing such a culinary gem!

If you’ve fallen in love with this glazed salmon and are eager to explore more delicious seafood creations that are both healthy and easy to prepare, here are some other fantastic recipes you might enjoy. These dishes are sure to broaden your seafood repertoire and delight your taste buds:

• Garlic Butter Baked Salmon from Diethood: A classic and comforting way to enjoy salmon, rich with aromatic garlic and butter.
• Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp: An elegant and flavorful appetizer or a light, sophisticated main course that’s surprisingly simple to execute.
• Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon: Another delightful sweet and savory glazed salmon option, offering a different yet equally tantalizing flavor profile.
• Dijon Mayonnaise Roasted Salmon: A simple yet incredibly flavorful and moist way to roast salmon, yielding tender results every time.
• Plus, explore all my Best Seafood Recipes for endless inspiration and new culinary adventures!

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The Recipe:

Glazed Salmon with Fruit Salsa

Prep Time
20 minutes

Cook Time
12 minutes

Total Time
32 minutes

Yield
4 servings

Marinating and then grilling or baking the salmon adds incredible depth of flavor. Plus, the orange marmalade glaze and tropical fruit salsa are terrific additions that elevate this dish to gourmet status.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars based on 30 reviews.

Ingredients

For Salmon:

• 3-4 (8-ounce) salmon fillets
• ½ cup soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup orange marmalade

For Tropical Fruit Salsa:

• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 1 kiwi, chopped
• 1 cup chopped mango
• 1 cup diced strawberries
• ¼-½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¾ cup diced red bell pepper
• 2 ½ tablespoons champagne vinegar (or fresh lime juice)
• 4 teaspoons sugar (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare Salmon Marinade: In a zip-top bag or shallow dish, mix soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Add salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes (do not exceed 60 minutes).
2. Prepare Grill or Oven: While the salmon marinates, preheat your grill to indirect medium heat, or preheat your oven to 450ºF (232°C).
3. Glaze and Cook Salmon (Grill Method): Remove salmon from the marinade. Discard excess marinade. Brush the top of each fillet with approximately 1 tablespoon of orange marmalade. Grill over indirect heat for 10-15 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached and the glaze is caramelized. Watch closely to prevent burning.
4. Glaze and Cook Salmon (Oven Method): Remove salmon from the marinade. Discard excess marinade. Brush the top of each fillet with approximately 1 tablespoon of orange marmalade. Place salmon on a grill pan or in a cast-iron skillet. Cook in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature 145°F / 63°C).
5. Prepare Fruit Salsa: While salmon cooks, combine diced pineapple, chopped kiwi, chopped mango, diced strawberries, crushed red pepper flakes, and diced red bell pepper in a medium bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar (or lime juice) and sugar (if using). Pour this dressing over the fruit mixture and gently combine. Refrigerate briefly to allow flavors to meld, then serve at room temperature.

Serving Suggestion for Salsa:

6. Spoon a generous amount of the tropical fruit salsa over each cooked glazed salmon fillet before serving.

Notes

Recipe inspired by Kate Marvel via Simple and Delicious and Gourmet LA Cookbook. For best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and ripe, seasonal fruits.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 servings

Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Calories: 614

Total Fat: 29g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Trans Fat: 0g

Unsaturated Fat: 20g

Cholesterol: 143mg

Sodium: 221mg

Carbohydrates: 37g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 31g

Protein: 52g

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