Introduction

Balsamic Glazed Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of salmon with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe offers a delicious balance of flavors.

A white plate holds a thick, grilled salmon fillet that is richly browned and shiny with a dark, glossy sauce coating its surface. The salmon has visible grill marks and is sprinkled with small green herb pieces and cracked peppercorns. Next to the salmon, there is a bundle of bright green asparagus spears arranged neatly, showing a fresh and slightly cooked texture. The sauce pools gently around the base of the salmon, adding a glossy depth to the dish. The background features a soft wooden blur, drawing focus to the food on the white plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. salmon fillet
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic, minced or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well to mix all the sauce ingredients evenly. Then divide the sauce into two halves.
Step 2: Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and pour half of the sauce over it. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and arrange the marinated salmon on it. Bake the salmon for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on its thickness. Halfway through baking, baste the salmon with the remaining marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and serve it hot. Drizzle with any leftover glaze for extra flavor.
Step 5: Enjoy your balsamic glazed salmon immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips & Variations

For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar by half or substitute with honey for a different flavor profile.
To add a smoky depth, try grilling the salmon instead of baking and brush with the glaze during cooking.
Garlic powder can be used instead of fresh garlic for a milder taste and easier preparation.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent drying out. Leftover glaze can be refrigerated separately for up to one week and used as a sauce or marinade for other dishes.

How to Serve

A piece of cooked salmon with a crispy brown top layer and moist orange-pink inside sits on a white plate. Dark, shiny balsamic glaze is being poured over the salmon, adding a glossy black layer on top. To the right of the salmon, there is a bundle of bright green cooked asparagus with a smooth texture. A shiny silver fork rests on the plate’s edge near the asparagus. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, and the overall look is warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and proper absorption of the glaze.

Is it necessary to marinate the salmon?

Marinating helps infuse the salmon with the flavorful balsamic glaze and tenderizes the fish, but you can skip this step if you are short on time. Just brush the glaze directly onto the salmon before baking and again while cooking.