Balsamic Glazed Salmon is a tasty dish that’s quick and easy to make. The fish is sweetened with a tangy balsamic glaze, giving it a deliciously unique flavor.
This meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you have guests over. I love serving it with veggies on the side—it’s healthy and makes me feel like a chef! 🎣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best here. If you can’t find salmon, trout or another fatty fish can work well as a substitute. Canned salmon can be used too, though the texture will be different.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its signature tangy-sweet flavor. If you’re low on balsamic, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar can work in a pinch.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness to the glaze. You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, which will also add great flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love using thyme or parsley for garnish. If you don’t have these, feel free to use other herbs like dill or basil, which complement salmon nicely.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Skin on Salmon?
Getting that beautifully crispy skin takes some simple steps. Here’s how:
- First, make sure the salmon is dry by patting it with paper towels. Moisture can prevent the skin from becoming crispy.
- Heat the skillet until it’s very hot before adding olive oil. Pre-heating is key!
- Once you place the salmon in the skillet, don’t move it for the first few minutes. Let it sear so it can develop a nice crust.
- Flip the salmon gently with a spatula after the skin side has cooked. Cook it just until it’s opaque in the center, about 2-3 minutes.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crispy skin that adds a wonderful texture to your dish!
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh blackberries or similar berries (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 20 minutes. It’s quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an easy meal for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a great sear. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, until they’re golden brown and can easily be lifted from the pan. This will give you a nice crispy skin!
3. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the salmon fillets over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The salmon should be just cooked through and still moist in the center. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and reduces by half to form a syrupy glaze.
5. Serve the Salmon:
Plate the cooked salmon fillets and drizzle the warm balsamic glaze generously over the top. For a lovely touch, garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley. If you’d like, scatter some fresh blackberries or similar berries around the plate for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Balsamic Glazed Salmon immediately, ideally with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a good sear!
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Both alternatives will add a nice sweetness to the glaze without compromising the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Can I Make the Balsamic Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently on the stove before drizzling it over your salmon.