Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze

Name: Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup pomegranate juice; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water; Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I can't get enough of the vibrant flavors in this Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze. The juicy salmon fillets, caramelized with a sweet and tangy glaze, have quickly become a family favorite. The combination of pomegranate and salmon creates a beautiful balance that adds an elegant touch to any meal. I love serving this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a perfectly nutritious option that's both simple and impressive. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this delicious recipe.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:13:20.844Z

When I first paired salmon with a pomegranate glaze, I was concerned it might be too sweet. However, the tartness of the pomegranate perfectly balances the richness of the fish, creating a harmonious dish that excites the palate. Each time I serve it, guests rave about the beautiful color and flavor!

I particularly enjoy preparing this dish on a weeknight, as it comes together quickly. The secret is not to overcook the salmon, ensuring it remains moist and flaky. I've perfected my timing so that the glaze caramelizes just right, resulting in a scrumptious finish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The delightful blend of sweet pomegranate and savory salmon
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners or special occasions
A healthy dish packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors

      

Balancing Flavors

The combination of pomegranate and salmon offers a unique interplay of sweet and savory notes. Pomegranate juice brings natural sweetness and acidity, which beautifully complements the rich, fatty nature of salmon. For the best results, use pure pomegranate juice without additives or sweeteners, as this will ensure an authentic flavor profile. You can find it in most grocery stores or juice bars, and fresh pomegranate seeds can also enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Adjusting the glaze to your taste is a simple yet impactful way to personalize this dish. If you prefer a thicker glaze, cook it a bit longer until it coats the back of a spoon. Conversely, if you enjoy a lighter sauce, reduce the honey slightly. The balance of sweet, tangy, and salty can be tailored to suit your family's preferences, so do not hesitate to experiment within the parameters of the basic recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Achieving the ideal salmon texture can be a challenge, but with a few mindful techniques, it’s easily attainable. Cooking skin-side down first allows the skin to crisp, adding a delightful texture that contrasts with the flakiness of the fish. Flip the salmon carefully using a spatula, and allow it to continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures the salmon is moist but not overcooked, preserving its natural flavors.

When applying the glaze, be careful not to drown the salmon; you want the glaze to enhance the dish rather than mask it. Pouring half the glaze after flipping and reserving the rest for serving keeps the flavors bright and concentrated, while also preventing burning. Watching for visual cues like a slight caramelization on the edges will guide you to just the right point of doneness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate the presentation of your Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or couscous to absorb the delicious juices. Roasted vegetables—like Brussels sprouts or carrots—add both color and nutrition, while a side of leafy greens dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar offers a nice contrast to the rich tones of the glaze.

If you're looking to switch things up, try adding fresh herbs like dill or coriander into the glaze for a fragrant twist. Alternatively, for a spicier version, a dash of chili flakes can be added to the glaze or served alongside. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy different variations of this dish repeatedly without losing interest.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pomegranate Glaze

1 cup pomegranate juice
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish

Prepare your ingredients

Instructions

How to Make Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze

Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, honey, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Cook the Salmon

Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip the salmon and pour half of the pomegranate glaze over the top. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Drizzle the remaining glaze over the salmon and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the salmon in the pomegranate juice for about 30 minutes before cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the pomegranate glaze ahead of time can streamline your cooking process, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Simply store the cooled glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you're ready to cook the salmon, gently reheat the glaze in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm, which will maintain its flavor and consistency.

If planning a meal ahead of time, you can also marinate the salmon in a small portion of the glaze for around 30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the fish with flavor but also helps to keep it moist while cooking.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers of the salmon and glaze, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon will keep well for up to three days, but it's best consumed fresh to enjoy its texture and flavor. Before reheating, let the salmon come to room temperature for about 10 minutes—this ensures even warming when reheating. A quick reheating in the microwave or a light sear in a skillet over low heat can work wonders.

The pomegranate glaze thickens when chilled; you may need to add a splash of water or reheated pomegranate juice to get it back to the desired pouring consistency. This way, you can enjoy the dish once again without compromising on the delicious flavors that made it a hit initially.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute another fish?

Yes, trout or sea bass would work well with this glaze.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it gluten-free.

→ What side dishes pair well with this salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a simple arugula salad complement the dish nicely.