Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze (Printable Version)

Elegant salmon with sweet-tart pomegranate glaze, garnished with vibrant seeds and herbs for a stunning holiday centerpiece.

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 pounds salmon (whole Atlantic salmon or fillets)
02 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
03 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
04 - 2 cups sugar-free pomegranate juice
05 - ¼ cup brown sugar
06 - ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice (from 1 orange)
07 - 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
08 - Pomegranate seeds for garnish
09 - Orange slices for garnish
10 - Fresh parsley for garnish
11 - Green onions (scallions) for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 300°F and line large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place salmon skin-side down on baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
03 - Add pomegranate juice, brown sugar, orange juice, and orange zest to saucepan over medium heat.
04 - Bring sauce to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to syrup-like consistency.
05 - Brush reduced pomegranate sauce over the salmon.
06 - Place salmon in oven and bake for 30-38 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F on meat thermometer.
07 - Transfer salmon to serving platter and garnish with pomegranate seeds, orange slices, fresh parsley, and sliced green onions.

# Notes:

01 - Cook salmon low and slow to prevent drying out and overcooking. Internal temperature must reach 145°F for food safety.
02 - Can substitute whole salmon with individual salmon fillets with or without skin. Use meat thermometer for accurate doneness.