This balsamic glazed salmon is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender fish, creating a great balance of flavors!
Trust me, your dinner guests will be impressed, and you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up. I love serving it with some veggies on the side for a healthy meal! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key here. You can use skin-on for added flavor and crispness. If salmon is scarce, trout or even chicken breasts could work, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is what gives the dish its signature tangy flavor. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be a substitute, but the taste will differ slightly.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Either sweetener balances the vinegar’s acidity. If you’re watching sugar intake, a sugar-free alternative like agave or a stevia blend works well. Just use less, as those are typically sweeter!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. You could use garlic powder in a pinch, just half the amount, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Skin on Salmon?
Getting that crispy skin on the salmon is all about technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a dry salmon fillet. Pat it down with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Heat the skillet until it’s nice and hot before adding the oil.
- Place the salmon skin-side down and don’t rush the flip! Let it cook untouched for 4-5 minutes to form a nice crust.
- Flip it carefully with a spatula, and cook the other side until just cooked through.
Following these steps will ensure that your salmon has a delightful crispy skin every time!
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra depth)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this tasty dish ready in about 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve that lovely crisp skin! Next, generously season both sides of the fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Mix the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). This mixture will add a rich and flavorful glaze to your salmon. Set this aside.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it’s hot but not smoking.
4. Cook the Salmon Skin-Side Down:
Carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down into the hot skillet. Let them cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes. This allows the skin to get nice and crispy!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once the skin is crispy, gently flip the fillets over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The salmon should be almost cooked through by the end of this time.
6. Add the Balsamic Glaze:
Pour the balsamic glaze mixture over the salmon fillets, spooning some of the sauce over the top of the fish. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly as it coats the salmon beautifully.
7. Plate and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Carefully plate the salmon and drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed greens or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors in this dish!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to fully thaw it first. The best way is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes, but expect a different flavor profile. To mimic the sweetness, consider adding a little sugar or honey to your alternative vinegar.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.
What Pairings Would Go Well with Balsamic Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with sides like steamed green beans, quinoa, or a fresh salad. It’s also delicious served over a bed of rice or with roasted vegetables to soak up that tangy glaze!