Balsamic Glazed Salmon: A Sweet and Tangy Seafood Delight

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful seafood dish, this Balsamic Glazed Salmon is a perfect choice. With a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze made from a combination of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic, this dish brings a delicious depth of flavor to tender, flaky salmon. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Best of all, it’s simple to prepare and only requires a few ingredients, making it a great weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. salmon fillet

For the Sauce:

• 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

Directions:

1. Prepare the Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed and the sugar dissolves. Divide the sauce in half, reserving some for basting and serving later.

2. Marinate the Salmon:

Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and pour half of the prepared sauce over it, making sure the salmon is evenly coated. Cover and marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

3. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or casserole dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

4. Bake the Salmon:

Remove the marinated salmon from the fridge and place it on the foil-lined baking sheet or dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet.

5. Baste the Salmon:

Halfway through the baking process, baste the salmon with the reserved sauce for an extra boost of flavor and moisture.

6. Serve:

Once the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top for a final touch of sweetness and tanginess. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 320 kcal

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Glazed Salmon:

• Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The combination of balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that perfectly complement the richness of the salmon.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish is easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion.
• Versatile: This glaze pairs beautifully with other proteins like chicken , so feel free to get creative with the sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets to ensure the best flavor. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer flavor than farmed varieties.
• Adjust Baking Time: The thickness of your salmon fillet will determine how long it needs to bake. A thicker fillet may need closer to 20 minutes, while a thinner one could be done in 15.
• Baste for Flavor: Don’t skip the basting step! Adding more of the glaze halfway through cooking infuses the salmon with even more sweet and tangy goodness.

Variations:

• Grill Instead of Bake: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the marinated salmon instead of baking. Grill on medium heat for about 4-6 minutes per side, basting with sauce as it cooks.
• Add Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the glaze.
• Spice it Up: If you like more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Vegetables: Serve your balsamic glazed salmon with roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, balanced meal.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Pair the salmon with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the extra glaze.
• With a Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette would pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the salmon.

Final Thoughts:

This Balsamic Glazed Salmon is a wonderful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that highlight the natural richness of the fish. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but also elegant enough to serve for guests or special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

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