As the salmon bakes, the glaze becomes sweet, tangy, and sticky. The inside of the salmon is juicy, tender, and flaky. As further proof that this balsamic salmon recipe is EASY, my husband Ben (who readily admits that his kitchen skills are best used for dish washing and not whipping up Salmon Wellington) made it for me with delicious success. If he can do it, you can do it! For another of his recent dinner hits (and the hilarious story of our first ever Valentine’s Day), check out Salmon Pasta.
How to Make the Best Balsamic Glazed Salmon Recipe
This glazed salmon recipe, while impressive enough for a date night-in, is also perfect for busy weeknights. It cooks up in only 20 minutes! Start by making balsamic glaze: stir together balsamic vinegar, honey, and seasonings, then simmer them on the stove for a few minutes until they reduce. From there, brush the glaze over the salmon and bake. EASY!
The Ingredients
Salmon. Packed with protein and healthy omega-3s, salmon is one of my all-time favorite fish to cook. Whether you make Poached Salmon (which involves a gentle boil), Grilled Salmon, Broiled Salmon, or baked glazed salmon like this recipe, it’s a a versatile protein choice that will never steer you wrong.
Balsamic Vinegar. Sweet, tart, and lightly acidic, balsamic vinegar is salmon’s perfect partner (it’s also dreamy in these Balsamic Brussels Sprouts). With notes of cherry, chocolate, and fig it’s the perfect ingredient for any date night-worthy recipe.Honey. Intensifies and highlights the sweetness of the robustly flavored balsamic vinegar. (It’s also a key ingredient in this Honey Garlic Salmon.)
Garlic. For another layer of flavor that also adds some zip (as in this Garlic Salmon with Lemon Butter).
Dijon Mustard. Adds a little bite and acidity to balance out the sweetness of the honey and balsamic vinegar. Just a teaspoon or two goes a long way in flavor!
How to Make Homemade Balsamic Glaze
Add Balsamic Glaze to Salmon
Storage Tips
To Store. Leftover balsamic glazed salmon may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To Reheat. For best results, warm the salmon in a 350 degree F oven until heated through.To Freeze. Balsamic glazed salmon may be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before warming. Note: it may have more of a “fishy” taste and be a little mushy.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Skillet. Do yourself a favor and invest in a quality non-stick skillet. You (and your date) can thank me later.Sheet Pan. An everyday kitchen essential no one should be without.Fillet Knife. A great tool to have on hand if you wish to remove the skin from your salmon before cooking it.
Grab some candles, turn down the lights, and play some mood music because this balsamic glazed salmon is turning on the charm. Here are a few of my other glazed salmon recipes:
Honey Glazed SalmonBourbon Glazed SalmonPineapple Glazed SalmonSoy Ginger SalmonMiso Salmon
For an in-depth look at baking salmon, check out this Salmon Temperature Chart.
Scalloped Potatoes
1 hr 10 mins
Roasted Carrots
30 mins
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
35 mins Leave a rating below in the comments and let me know how you liked the recipe.
Just for fun, here’s a photo of the original menu from that first Valentine’s Day.
Pineapple Glazed Salmon
2 hrs 45 mins
Grilled Salmon in Foil
25 mins
Salmon Pasta
30 mins