If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and irresistible textures, this Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe is about to become your new go-to. The perfectly seared salmon fillets glisten with a tangy, sweet glaze that’s bursting with fresh orange and toasted sesame notes, delivering a harmonious balance of citrus brightness and savory depth. It’s refreshing, comforting, and elegant enough for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal when friends come over. Trust me, once you dive into this flavor-packed salmon, it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four thick pieces of bright orange raw salmon are lined up side by side on a white marbled surface sprinkled with coarse salt crystals. Each piece shows clear light lines of fat running diagonally, adding texture to the smooth, glossy fish. The edges are sharp and the salmon looks fresh and moist, with a vibrant color that contrasts with the clean white background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the richness of the salmon to the zingy freshness of orange juice and the subtle heat from chili-garlic sauce, the combination is simple yet essential to achieving that perfect glaze and tender bite.

Salmon filets (4 x 5-ounce): Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for a juicy and flavorful base.

Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For a good sear that locks in moisture and adds a subtle richness.
Kosher salt + black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the salmon’s natural flavor.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant depth that complements both the fish and sauce.

Fresh orange juice (⅓ cup): Brings bright, citrusy sweetness that defines the glaze.
Orange marmalade (2 tablespoons): Adds body and a touch of texture while intensifying citrus notes.
Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Provides tang and balances the sweetness.

Low-sodium soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens umami and adds a savory balance.
Honey (1-2 tablespoons): Adjust for your preferred level of sweetness and glaze thickness.
Toasted sesame oil (2 teaspoons): Imparts that signature nutty aroma central to this recipe.

Chili-garlic sauce (1-2 teaspoons): Delivers a gentle kick — feel free to tailor the heat level to your taste.
Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Thickens the sauce beautifully for a glossy finish.

How to Make Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe

The image is split into two parts: on the left, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled with a brownish-orange sauce that has small bits of red and yellow floating inside, sitting on a white marbled surface. On the right, the same sauce is being poured from a container into a dark non-stick pan with small pale yellow garlic pieces scattered on the bottom. The sauce flows in a smooth stream, covering part of the garlic. The background is softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Start by removing your salmon from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking—this helps it cook evenly. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper on both sides to let the fish’s natural oils and flavors shine through during cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin side up and cook until the surface is golden and slightly crisp, about three minutes. This initial sear locks in the juices and sets up a lovely texture contrast.

Step 3: Prepare the Orange Sauce

While the salmon cooks, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange marmalade, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, chili-garlic sauce, and cornstarch in a measuring cup. This mixture will become your glossy, citrusy glaze that makes this Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe so special.

Step 4: Flip and Cook Through

Turn the salmon over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm while you finish the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Glaze and Combine

Check that there’s about a teaspoon of oil left in your pan; add a little if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds to release those aromatic oils, then pour in the prepared orange sauce. Let it come to a simmer and thicken slightly. Place the salmon fillets back into the skillet, skin side up to keep it crisp if you like, and let them bathe in that luscious glaze for about 30 seconds before serving.

How to Serve Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds both crunch and a vibrant pop of color that beautifully complements the glaze. Fresh orange slices or a few sprigs of cilantro can add a lovely fresh contrast as well.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce. For veggies, go for lightly sautéed greens like bok choy, snap peas, or a colorful medley of bell peppers and carrots to add crunch and balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, consider plating the salmon over a bed of wilted spinach or even mashed sweet potatoes to add subtle sweetness. Drizzle extra glaze around the plate for eye appeal, and serve with a wedge of lemon for an optional zesty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover glazed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors mellow and meld beautifully, making for an easy next-day meal.

Freezing

Salmon glazed with the citrus sauce can be frozen, but for best texture, freeze the fillets unglazed and add the glaze when reheating. This preserves the freshness and vibrancy of both the fish and sauce.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra orange juice if the glaze thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well as long as it’s properly thawed before cooking. Pat it dry before seasoning so the glaze adheres nicely.

What if I don’t have orange marmalade?

If you’re out of marmalade, you can substitute with fresh orange zest and a touch more honey for sweetness to maintain the citrus balance in the glaze.

How spicy is the chili-garlic sauce?

The recommended amount adds a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without being overpowering. Adjust according to your spice preference or substitute with a milder sriracha.

Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the sesame citrus glaze. Cook skin side down first to get a nice crisp before flipping gently.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To keep it gluten-free, use a gluten-free tamari or soy sauce alternative. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors that’s both approachable and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, the combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes wrapped around tender, flaky salmon is guaranteed to delight your taste buds. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and enjoy every vibrant, mouthwatering bite!

Sesame Citrus Glazed Salmon Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need