Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that looks as impressive as it tastes, Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is about to become your new favorite. This vibrant sheet pan wonder stars tender salmon fillets coated in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, nestled alongside snappy roasted asparagus. It’s healthy, absolutely packed with flavor, and ready in under half an hour—perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions when you want to wow with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus brings something special to the table, from the rich, buttery salmon to the fresh pop of asparagus and the irresistible glaze. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips on making each element shine.
- Salmon fillets: Choose center-cut fillets, about 6 oz each, for even cooking and an ultra-juicy texture.
- Asparagus: Trim the woody ends for perfectly tender, roasted spears that soak up all the pan juices.
- Olive oil: Divided between the veggies and the fish, it helps everything roast up golden and flavorful.
- Salt: Use half for seasoning the asparagus, and half to bring out the flavors in the glaze and salmon.
- Black pepper: Just a little adds a welcome spark and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- Balsamic vinegar: The star of the glaze—choose a good-quality vinegar for the richest flavor.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully in the oven.
- Dijon mustard: A spoonful gives the glaze its tangy bite and creamy texture.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the glaze with punchy, aromatic depth.
- Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze at the end brightens every bite and cuts the richness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness on top.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even roasting. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup—this will help keep both the salmon and asparagus from sticking and make serving a breeze.
Step 2: Season the Asparagus
Arrange the trimmed asparagus on one side of your baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, scatter over ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, then toss everything gently to coat. This simple step ensures every spear roasts up tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Place the Salmon
Set the salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the other side of the pan. This method keeps the fish moist while allowing the skin to get nicely crisped if you choose to eat it.
Step 4: Whisk the Balsamic Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until smooth and glossy—the aroma at this point is irresistible and sets the stage for the dish.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Generously spoon the balsamic glaze over each salmon fillet, spreading it to coat the tops and sides. Slide the pan into your hot oven, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily and the asparagus is tender. For a final flourish, broil for 1 to 2 minutes so the glaze bubbles and caramelizes beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges for a burst of color and brightness. Your Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is ready to impress—serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Garnishes
A little goes a long way here! A dusting of chopped fresh parsley adds a vivid green pop, while lemon wedges on the side let everyone customize with a splash of citrus. For extra flair, a few shavings of parmesan or a drizzle of leftover glaze can really elevate the presentation of Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or nutty quinoa—anything to soak up that incredible glaze. For a lighter meal, a crisp garden salad or some roasted baby potatoes make perfect companions to Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, try plating each salmon fillet atop a bed of asparagus, then drizzle with extra glaze and a sprinkle of microgreens. If you’re serving a crowd, arrange everything family-style on a large platter, garnished with lemon slices and parsley for a festive, shareable feel. Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is versatile enough to suit any occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus keeps well in the fridge. Store everything in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let the salmon cool completely before sealing it up to maintain its tender texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon fillets (without the asparagus) for up to 2 months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh, as its texture changes when frozen and thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, place salmon and asparagus on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish dry—gentle oven heat helps preserve the juicy, flaky texture of your Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Just thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight, then pat them dry before proceeding. This helps the glaze stick and ensures even cooking in your Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus.
What if I don’t have asparagus?
No worries—this recipe is just as delicious with green beans, broccoli, or even thinly sliced bell peppers. The sheet pan method works beautifully with a variety of vegetables.
Can I double the glaze?
Yes! If you’re like me and love extra sauce, feel free to double the glaze ingredients. You can drizzle the extra over the finished Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus or use it as a dip for your sides.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar are gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with a new weeknight staple, give Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus a try. It’s quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor—just the way great home cooking should be. I can’t wait for you to taste how easy and delicious this dish truly is!
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Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A simple yet elegant Balsamic Glazed Salmon with tender roasted asparagus, perfect for a healthy, flavorful sheet pan dinner. The tangy balsamic glaze combined with honey and Dijon mustard beautifully complements the rich salmon, making it a quick and nutritious meal for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Asparagus
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange Salmon: Place the 4 salmon fillets skin-side down on the other side of the baking sheet, keeping them separate from the asparagus.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze the Salmon: Spoon the balsamic glaze generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender.
- Broil for Caramelization: For extra caramelization on the glaze and slight crisp on the asparagus, broil for the last 1–2 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired to add brightness and freshness to the dish.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- You can double the balsamic glaze ingredients to have extra for drizzling over the finished salmon and asparagus.
- Asparagus can be swapped for green beans or broccoli if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with asparagus
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
