Traeger Orange Salmon

Traeger Orange Salmon is a deliciously smoky and citrus-infused dish that’s perfect for a backyard cookout or a cozy family dinner. This recipe combines the rich, buttery texture of salmon with the bright flavors of fresh orange and a hint of spice, all enhanced by the signature wood-fired taste of a Traeger grill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The Traeger grill infuses the salmon with a deep, smoky flavor that complements the citrus glaze.
• The orange marinade keeps the salmon moist and tender.
• It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare.
• Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
• Customizable with different wood pellets for unique flavor variations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh salmon fillets
• Orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• Orange zest
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated)
• Olive oil
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Wood pellets (e.g., cherry, apple, or maple)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade – In a bowl, mix orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, olive oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Marinate the salmon – Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Traeger grill – Set the grill to 350°F and allow it to preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes.
4. Grill the salmon – Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it skin-side down on the grill grates. Discard the marinade.
5. Cook until done – Grill for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Serve – Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra orange zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 35 minutes (including marinating)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Maple Orange Salmon – Swap honey for maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
• Spicy Citrus Salmon – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Garlic Butter Salmon – Brush melted garlic butter over the fillets while grilling for extra richness.
• Herb-Infused Salmon – Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an earthy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

FAQs

How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?

Brush the grill grates with oil before placing the salmon on them, and always cook skin-side down.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely in the fridge before marinating.

What type of wood pellets work best for this recipe?

Apple, cherry, or maple pellets enhance the citrus and smoky flavors beautifully.

How do I know when my salmon is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—salmon is done at 145°F. It should flake easily with a fork.

Can I bake this instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, but replace honey with a low-carb sweetener if needed.

Can I cook this on a gas grill?

Absolutely! Use indirect heat and follow the same grilling instructions.

What sides go well with orange salmon?

Try roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh citrus salad.

How long should I marinate the salmon?

At least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours to avoid over-marination.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch—just ensure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.

Conclusion

Traeger Orange Salmon is a vibrant, smoky, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re using your Traeger for a casual weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe will impress with its perfect balance of citrus and smoke. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a restaurant-quality salmon dish right from your backyard!

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