Baked Salmon with Cranberry-Orange Glaze & Wild Rice

 

Baked Salmon with Cranberry-Orange Glaze & Wild Rice: A Vibrant, Elegant Meal for Any Occasion

If you're looking for a recipe that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for a weeknight, Baked Salmon with Cranberry-Orange Glaze & Wild Rice is the perfect choice. This dish strikes a beautiful balance between sweet, tart, and savory — with a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress.

The flaky richness of baked salmon pairs perfectly with a bright, tangy cranberry-orange glaze, while wild rice adds earthiness and texture to round out the meal. It's a dish that tastes like a holiday but is simple enough to make anytime.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Beautiful and Flavorful: The jewel-toned glaze not only looks gorgeous but adds a burst of flavor.

• Quick and Healthy: Salmon is packed with omega-3s, and wild rice is a hearty whole grain.

• Festive Yet Easy: Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even a weeknight when you want to treat yourself.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: The glaze can be made in advance, and the rice can be cooked ahead of time for quick assembly.

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Key Ingredients

Here’s what makes this dish shine:

• Salmon Fillets – Rich in flavor and nutrients, salmon is the star of the show. Choose fresh, wild-caught if possible.

• Cranberries – Fresh or frozen cranberries bring a tart punch that cuts through the richness of the fish.

• Orange Juice & Zest – Brightens the glaze and adds a citrusy contrast to the tangy berries.

• Maple Syrup or Honey – Adds natural sweetness and depth to balance the acidity.

• Garlic & Dijon Mustard – Provide a savory backbone to the glaze.

• Wild Rice Blend – Earthy and nutty, it complements the salmon beautifully while adding fiber and texture.

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How It Comes Together

1. Prepare the glaze: Simmer cranberries with orange juice, zest, sweetener, Dijon, and garlic until the mixture thickens and the berries burst. Blend for a smooth finish if desired.

2. Bake the salmon: Season with salt and pepper, then brush generously with the glaze and bake until perfectly flaky.

3. Cook the wild rice: Simmer in broth or water until tender and fluffy.

4. Serve: Plate the salmon over a bed of wild rice, with extra glaze drizzled on top.

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Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the salmon – Aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for moist, tender fillets.

• Glaze ahead of time – Make the cranberry-orange glaze a day or two in advance to save time.

• Toast the rice – Lightly toasting the wild rice in oil or butter before cooking adds a nutty depth of flavor.

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Perfect Pairings

• Veggie Side: Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans with almonds are excellent choices.

• Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart glaze.

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for color and freshness just before serving.

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Make It Seasonal or Special

This dish is perfect for:

• Thanksgiving alternatives – A lighter, elegant main dish that still features cranberries.

• Date nights at home – Looks fancy, tastes amazing, and requires minimal effort.

• Meal prep – Make portions ahead for healthy, delicious lunches all week.

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Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon with Cranberry-Orange Glaze & Wild Rice is one of those rare dishes that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is satisfying to eat. The contrast of flavors and textures — sweet, tart, savory, flaky, and nutty — makes every bite feel special. Whether you're serving it for guests or enjoying a quiet evening in, this meal is sure to impress without the stress.