Dinner

Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze Recipe

ByLana Polati January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

Introduction

This Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze is a festive and elegant dish perfect for holiday gatherings. The sweet and citrusy glaze complements the rich, tender salmon, creating a beautiful centerpiece for your dinner table.

A white oval plate holds a large, golden-brown grilled salmon fillet with clear grill marks across its surface. On top of the salmon, there is a thick layer of finely chopped green herbs arranged in a neat strip down the center, dotted with small dark red berries. Around the salmon, there is a glossy deep red sauce with whole dark red berries and some green leaves in it, partially soaking the plate. Three lemon slices with visible seeds and pale yellow color are placed around the fillet on the sauce, adding a fresh contrast to the rich colors. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs. whole Atlantic salmon
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups pomegranate juice
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Orange slices for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish
Green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Step 2: Place the whole Atlantic salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Season the salmon evenly with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavor.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, fresh squeezed orange juice, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and allow it to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens to a syrup-like consistency, which will become a flavorful glaze.
Step 4: Once the pomegranate glaze has thickened, brush a generous layer over the top of the seasoned salmon to infuse it with a sweet and citrusy flavor.
Step 5: Place the glazed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 30-38 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C), indicating it is safely cooked and tender.
Step 6: Carefully transfer the baked salmon to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds, vibrant orange slices, chopped fresh parsley, and thinly sliced green onions to add color, freshness, and extra flavor to the dish.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper flavor, marinate the salmon in some of the pomegranate glaze before baking.
If you can’t find whole salmon, use fillets and adjust baking time accordingly.
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for extra complexity.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but properly stored salmon can make great leftovers.