Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Strawberry Salsa | Fresh & Easy
Fresh salmon fillets meet a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze and a vibrant strawberry salsa in this easy dinner recipe. This dish combines the rich flavor of baked salmon with the bright notes of seasonal strawberries, creating a healthy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
If you’re looking for quick salmon recipes that pack in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, this balsamic glazed salmon is a top choice. The strawberry salsa adds a fresh twist, blending juicy berries with herbs and lime for a burst of summer taste.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Cooks
In today’s fast-paced life, easy recipes like this one shine. The total time is under 30 minutes, with minimal prep and no fancy equipment needed beyond a saucepan and baking sheet. Cleanup is simple since everything is oven-baked or mixed in bowls.
The flavors pair well: the sweet-sour balsamic glaze complements the buttery salmon, while the strawberry salsa adds a refreshing, fruity element. It’s versatile too, serving as a main for dinner or flaked over salads for lunch. Home cooks love how it uses common ingredients yet feels gourmet.
Ingredients for Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Gather these simple ingredients for the main salmon dish. Focus on high-quality salmon for the best results.
Salmon and Glaze Components
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (reduced for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons honey (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Strawberry Salsa Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced, about 1 pint)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and minced, adjust for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
These ingredients highlight seasonal produce and pantry staples, making this a budget-friendly option for healthy eating.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make balsamic glazed salmon with strawberry salsa. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking the fish.
Preparing the Balsamic Glaze
Start with the glaze, as it needs time to thicken.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring often. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. This creates a sticky glaze that coats the salmon perfectly.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. The glaze will thicken more as it cools.
This balsamic reduction adds a caramelized depth to the salmon, balancing its natural fattiness.
Making the Strawberry Salsa
While the glaze simmers, prepare the fresh salsa. It’s best made just before serving to keep the strawberries crisp.
- In a medium bowl, toss diced strawberries, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Gently stir to combine. Let the salsa sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust lime or salt if needed.
The strawberry salsa brings acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness of the glazed salmon. For a milder version, remove the jalapeño seeds completely.
Cooking the Salmon
Now, focus on the star of the dish: the salmon.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze stick.
- Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Place the fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon.
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the balsamic glaze over each fillet, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
- For extra caramelization, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
The oven-baked method ensures even cooking, and the glaze forms a shiny, flavorful crust.
Assembling and Serving
Plate the cooked salmon and top each piece with a generous spoonful of strawberry salsa. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve immediately with sides like quinoa, steamed asparagus, or a green salad. The warm salmon contrasts beautifully with the cool salsa.
This complete meal provides about 350 calories per serving, with 30 grams of protein and healthy fats from the salmon.
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Glazed Salmon
To make this recipe foolproof, keep these pointers in mind. They address common issues with salmon cooking and fruit salsas.
- Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon for better taste and nutrition. Farm-raised works too, but check for sustainability.
- If your balsamic vinegar is thick, dilute it slightly with water before reducing to avoid bitterness.
- For the strawberry salsa, use ripe but firm berries. Overripe ones can make it watery.
- Make ahead: Prepare the glaze and salsa up to 2 hours in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat the glaze gently.
- Variations: Swap strawberries for other berries like blueberries in off-season. For a dairy twist, add crumbled feta to the salsa.
- Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat salmon gently in the oven to avoid drying it out. The salsa is best fresh but can be stored separately for 1 day.
These tips ensure your healthy salmon recipe turns out great every time, whether you’re a beginner cook or experienced in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
This balsamic glazed salmon with strawberry salsa isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients. Salmon provides essential omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation. A single serving delivers over 1,000 mg of these beneficial fats.
Strawberries contribute vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immunity and skin health. One cup offers nearly 100% of your daily needs. The balsamic glaze adds antioxidants from the vinegar, while lime and cilantro provide vitamin K and fiber for digestion.
Overall, this low-calorie meal aids weight management, with balanced macros: high protein, moderate healthy fats, and low carbs. It’s ideal for keto, paleo, or Mediterranean diets. Pairing fish with fresh fruit like in this recipe enhances nutrient absorption, making it a smart choice for family meals.
FAQs
What can I substitute for strawberries in the salsa?
You can use diced mango, pineapple, or cherry tomatoes for a similar fresh texture. These fruits keep the salsa vibrant and pair well with the balsamic flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for grilling?
Yes, grill the salmon over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side instead of baking. Brush with glaze during the last minute to avoid burning.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. Overcooking makes it dry, so check at the 12-minute mark.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely, this recipe is naturally dairy-free. No changes needed, and it fits vegan swaps if you replace salmon with tofu.
How long does the balsamic glaze last?
Stored in an airtight jar in the fridge, the glaze keeps for up to 2 weeks. Warm it gently before using on other proteins like chicken or veggies.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Strawberry Salsa
Fresh salmon fillets meet a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze and a vibrant strawberry salsa in this easy, healthy dinner. The rich, oven-baked salmon pairs perfectly with bright, juicy strawberries, herbs, and lime for a weeknight-friendly meal that feels gourmet.
Ingredients
Salmon and Glaze:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Strawberry Salsa:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced (about 1 pint)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring often, and cook 5-7 minutes until reduced by about half and syrupy. Remove from heat to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Make the salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced strawberries, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Add the lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and let sit 5 minutes to meld flavors; adjust lime or salt to taste.
- Prep the salmon: Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with olive oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if skin-on.
- Glaze the salmon: Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the balsamic glaze over each fillet, spreading evenly.
- Bake 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For extra caramelization, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
- Serve: Transfer salmon to plates, top generously with strawberry salsa, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve immediately with sides like quinoa, asparagus, or a green salad.
Notes
- Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon for best flavor; sustainably raised is a good option too.
- If your balsamic vinegar is very thick, whisk in a teaspoon of water before reducing to prevent bitterness.
- Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid a watery salsa.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the glaze and salsa up to 2 hours in advance; refrigerate. Warm glaze gently before using.
- Variations: Swap strawberries for blueberries, mango, pineapple, or cherry tomatoes. Add crumbled feta to the salsa for a salty twist.
- Grilling option: Grill salmon over medium heat 4–5 minutes per side. Brush with glaze during the last minute to prevent burning.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 587Total Fat: 34gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 25gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 343mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 2gSugar: 11gProtein: 53g
The nutrition information provided is an estimate calculated using an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Exact values may vary depending on ingredient brands, measurements, preparation methods, and portion sizes. For the most accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or use your own preferred nutrition calculator.
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