We received a version of this recipe years ago and I have been trying to replicate it ever since! I think this is as close as I'm going to get ;) The savory flavor of the Pan-seared Salmon topped with the sweetness of the Blueberry Preserves and Orange juice and just a touch of heat from Cayenne Pepper make this dish unique and very flavorful! A 5-Star winner in our house :)
1lbSalmoncut into 4 fillets; skin removed, if desired
1TbspOlive Oil
1TbspSalted Butter
1-2pinchesSalt
1-2pinchesGround Black Pepper
The Blueberry-Orange Glaze:
3/4-1CupBlueberry PreservesI use Bonne Maman
1/4-1/2CupOrange Juicestart with 1/4 and add more if needed
2tspFresh Orange Zest
1-2pinchesCayenne Pepperstart with 1 and add more, if desired, after the glaze has cooked for a few minutes
Instructions
Pan-Searing the Salmon:
Rinse Salmon under cold water and pat dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper; set aside.
In a large non-stick frying pan, heat the Olive Oil and Butter over Medium heat until there is a sheen on the surface and the butter is completely melted.
Place the Salmon fillets, skin side up, into the frying pan; do not move them around - this allows them to get that nice golden, crispy layer; cook for about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
After the first side is done, carefully flip the fillets over and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Reduce temperature to medium-low/low, if needed.
Once the Salmon is done, carefully transfer the fillets to a warming dish, reserving any oil/butter in the pan; set fillets aside.
Making the Blueberry-Orange Glaze:
Using the same skillet that you used to cook the Salmon, add the Blueberry Preserves, Orange Juice, Orange Zest and Cayenne Pepper, mixing well with a whisk. Cook over medium to medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a low boil. Taste to see of more Cayenne is needed. Reduce temperature and continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes, or until mixture begins to reduce and thicken.
Add the Salmon back into the pan with the blueberry glaze for 1-2 minutes.
Serve the Salmon with the Blueberry Glaze drizzled over the top. Yum!