Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

Name: Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love creating dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients, and this Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze hits all the right notes! Combining the richness of salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze elevates the flavors in a way that's truly delightful. It’s quick to prepare, which makes it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The contrast between the buttery fish and the vibrant glaze is simply mouthwatering, bringing together both elegance and ease right to my table.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:25:35.071Z

As I attempted to create a dish that was both healthy and indulgent, I discovered that pairing salmon with strawberries adds a unique twist that always impresses my guests. The fresh strawberries not only lighten the dish but also enhance the richness of the salmon. I find that using a high-quality balsamic vinegar makes all the difference, contributing to a perfect balance of sweetness and tang — it's worth splurging a little!

Another vital tip is to sear the salmon skin-side down first; this helps retain moisture while achieving a crispy exterior. I also love adding a sprinkle of fresh basil at the end for an aromatic touch that rounds out the flavors beautifully. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The unique combination of sweet strawberries and savory salmon is a flavor winner.
The balsamic glaze adds a rich depth that elevates any meal.
It's a beautiful dish that can impress guests while being easy to make.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries in this recipe is crucial for achieving a vibrant flavor profile. Fresh strawberries provide a natural sweetness and acidity that bottled products often lack. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red and firm, showing no signs of bruising. This will ensure that the glaze is as flavorful and aromatic as possible, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish.

The quality of your salmon is equally important. Opt for wild-caught salmon when available, as it tends to have a richer flavor and superior texture compared to farmed varieties. The ideal fillet should have a deep pink hue, with a firm texture. If you prefer, you can use skinless salmon fillets; just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they might cook slightly faster.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Achieving perfectly seared salmon requires careful attention. Preheating your skillet is essential; an adequately heated skillet (about medium-high heat) allows the skin to crisp up nicely within the first few minutes. Use a high-smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed if you prefer, but olive oil works well. Sear each fillet skin-side down for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, then flipping it for a final cook time of 4-5 minutes ensures even doneness.

If you find that your salmon is cooking unevenly, it might be due to overcrowding in the skillet. To avoid this common pitfall, cook the fillets in batches if necessary. This will allow each piece to have enough contact with the pan, ensuring that they develop a beautifully browned crust and don’t steam.

Enhancing & Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to experiment with the glaze to suit your taste! If strawberries aren’t in season, raspberries or blackberries could provide a delightful twist. They will create a slightly different yet equally satisfying flavor. Additionally, for a more pronounced acidity, a splash of lemon juice can be added to the glaze just before serving, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

If you are looking to serve this dish with sides, consider pairing it with a light arugula salad or roasted asparagus. Both options complement the sweetness of the glaze and the richness of the salmon beautifully. Additionally, the dish is excellent reheated, making meal prep a breeze. Just store the salmon and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the dish shine:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering salmon dish:

Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, place the salmon skin-side down and sear for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the strawberry balsamic glaze over each fillet. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delightful dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry glaze for a zesty brightness.

Storage Tips

To maintain the quality of your dish, store leftover salmon and strawberry balsamic glaze separately. The salmon can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheating salmon can sometimes dry it out, so gently warm it in the microwave on a low setting, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

When it comes to the strawberry balsamic glaze, store it in a small jar or container with a lid. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about a week. If the glaze thickens too much upon chilling, just add a splash of water and reheat it gently on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Present it on a white platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine. Fresh basil garnish not only adds visual appeal, but it also enhances the flavor with a refreshing aroma that complements the fish nicely.

For a complete meal experience, consider serving this dish alongside herbed quinoa or garlic mashed potatoes. The earthy flavors of these sides pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze. Also, don’t hesitate to drizzle a bit of extra glaze over your sides for extra flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I serve with salmon?

This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a light salad.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the glaze for up to three days and reheat it before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.