This Balsamic Glazed Salmon is simply yum! The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze gives the fish a shiny finish and a burst of flavor. It’s easy to whip up for a quick dinner.
I love how the glaze caramelizes while baking, making the salmon even tastier. Pair it with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a fabulous meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you want to try something different, trout or halibut works well too. Frozen salmon is a good alternative, just thaw it before cooking.
Balsamic Vinegar: It provides a deep flavor. If you’re out of balsamic, you can use apple cider vinegar mixed with a touch of sugar. Red wine vinegar is another substitute but will give a sharper taste.
Honey or Brown Sugar: These sweeteners help balance the acidity of the balsamic. Use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives for a different sweetness profile.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds depth to the glaze. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or replace it with a mix of regular mustard and a little bit of honey for sweetness.
How Do I Get My Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but a few simple steps will help you out! The goal is to achieve a tender, flaky texture without overcooking it.
- Start by heating the skillet with olive oil until it’s hot, but not smoking.
- Pat dry the salmon with a paper towel to get that nice sear. That moisture can cause the fish to steam instead of sear.
- Add the salmon skin-side down if there’s skin; otherwise, place it presentation side down first.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, checking for a golden color. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque inside.
Following these tips should ensure your salmon turns out beautifully every time!
Balsamic Glazed Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. So, in under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps to get that beautiful sear. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Heat it over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir often and let it cook until it reduces and thickens into a syrupy glaze, about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
3. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate.
4. Combine and Coat:
Pour the balsamic glaze into the skillet and gently heat it for 1-2 minutes. Then, return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the top of the fillets to coat them well. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
Transfer the glazed salmon to your serving plates and drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over each fillet. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve immediately, and enjoy it with a refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables!
This Balsamic Glazed Salmon recipe beautifully balances the rich, tender salmon with a perfect sticky, tangy-sweet glaze. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator or by submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar for sweetness or try red wine vinegar for a sharper taste. Both will give your dish a different but tasty flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, but be careful not to overcook it!
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before serving for the best flavor and texture.
