This balsamic glazed salmon is delicious and easy to make! The sweet and tangy glaze makes the fish shine on your dinner plate, turning a simple meal into something special.
Honestly, the best part is how quickly it cooks. I often whip this up for busy nights. Just serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a tasty dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you’re not a salmon fan, you can replace it with trout or chicken breasts for a different taste.
Balsamic vinegar: This adds a unique tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a touch of sugar for sweetness.
Honey or maple syrup: Both sweeteners work well. For a lower-calorie option, consider agave nectar or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Fresh herbs: Rosemary and thyme add great flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions work too—just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Glazed Salmon?
The key to a beautifully glazed salmon is getting the cooking time right, as overcooking can dry it out. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps to sear the fillets, locking in moisture.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down for a nice crust. Once flipped, pour the glaze over and let it do its magic for about 3-4 minutes.
- Watch for the salmon to flake easily with a fork, indicating it’s done. Pull it from the heat a tad early; it will continue to cook slightly after being removed.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious, juicy salmon with a shiny glaze that’s sure to impress!
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
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
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, so you’re looking at a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the salmon to sear nicely. Once dried, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Mix the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and Dijon mustard, if you’re using it. This will be a delicious glaze that brings out the flavor of the salmon, so set it aside after mixing!
3. Heat the Oil:
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the salmon to get a nice sear!
4. Sear the Salmon:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear the fillets for about 4 minutes on one side until they’re a lovely golden brown. Don’t move them around; let them sit so they can form a nice crust.
5. Flip and Glaze:
After 4 minutes, gently flip the salmon fillets over. Now, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared balsamic glaze over the salmon in the skillet. To ensure all the flavors mix well, spoon the sauce over the fillets as they cook for another 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for the salmon to flake easily with a fork when it’s done, and the glaze should be thickened and sticky.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Let the salmon rest for about a minute, and then spoon any remaining glaze over the top. Lastly, garnish your dish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, and sprinkle some chopped parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve:
Plate the salmon and serve it hot with lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, rice, or your favorite roasted vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Glazed Salmon! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly tasty—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it fully before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, simply reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for a saltier flavor without added sweetness.
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic glaze a day ahead! Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Before using, you may need to heat it gently to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.