When you want a meal that’s healthy, flavorful, and quick to prepare, salmon is always a fantastic choice. Our Balsamic Glazed Salmon recipe elevates this popular fish with a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily whip up at home.
The secret to this stunning salmon is the balsamic glaze — it’s a simple mixture that reduces into a luscious, sticky coating for the fish.
Salmon’s rich, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the tart sweetness of balsamic vinegar.
This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Baking the salmon ensures even cooking and keeps the fish moist and tender.
The glaze requires just a few pantry staples: balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
You can use fresh or frozen salmon fillets; just thaw thoroughly before baking.
The high oven temperature helps caramelize the glaze while gently roasting the fish.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Pair it with simple sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Leftover salmon is delicious flaked over salads or tucked into wraps for an easy lunch.
Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme gives the glaze an aromatic twist.
You can double the glaze and drizzle some over roasted veggies for a full flavor experience.
This balsamic salmon is impressive enough for date nights or dinner parties yet simple enough for everyday meals.
Ready to make a delicious, elegant salmon dish with minimal effort? Let’s dive in!
Servings: 4 servings
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper; place them skin-side down on the prepared sheet.
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
- Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brush half of the glaze over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Brush remaining glaze over the salmon during the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the glaze if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips:
- Watch the glaze carefully while simmering to avoid burning.
- Use a meat thermometer; salmon is done when it reaches 145°F internally.
- Don’t overcook — salmon continues to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished salmon for a bright finish.
- Line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this Balsamic Glazed Salmon for its rich flavor, gorgeous caramelized glaze, and quick, easy preparation. It feels fancy but fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
Summary: Balsamic Glazed Salmon features tender, flaky salmon fillets coated in a luscious, tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. Easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious — a perfect weeknight dinner or elegant meal!