Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

Name: Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Local Kitchen

When I first paired salmon with a strawberry balsamic glaze, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries, combined with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, creates a sauce that truly elevates this dish. It's become a favorite in my kitchen, not just because it’s delicious, but also because it’s easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the plate. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:14:34.786Z

Creating the strawberry balsamic glaze was a delightful experiment that I’ll always cherish. I started by blending fresh strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar, cooking it down until it became thick and syrupy, which brought out the natural sweetness of the berries. This method works beautifully because caramelizing enhances the flavors and creates a wonderful contrast with the savory salmon.

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary results. I recommend using fresh strawberries for a vibrant flavor, and a splash of lemon juice at the end elevates the dish even further. It’s a perfect example of how combining the right elements makes cooking an art.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
Visually stunning, making it ideal for entertaining

      

Mastering the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

The strawberry balsamic glaze is the star of this dish, balancing sweetness and acidity perfectly. As you simmer the strawberries with balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, keep an eye on its consistency; it should become slightly syrupy in about 10 minutes. If it isn’t thickening as expected, you can gently increase the heat and stir more frequently. The glaze should have a glossy finish and tan color when ready, making it visually appealing as well.

Choosing ripe, fresh strawberries is crucial for maximizing flavor. Look for berries that are vibrant red with no signs of bruising. If fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen berries can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your glaze. The combination of acidity from the balsamic and sweetness from the strawberries creates a lively flavor profile that complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.

Cooking Salmon to Perfection

When cooking salmon, the thickness of your fillets can greatly affect the cooking time. Aim for fillets that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking. Heat the non-stick skillet over medium heat; this allows the salmon to sear beautifully while preventing it from sticking. You'll know it's time to flip the salmon when the edges start to become opaque and the skin is crisp and golden brown. A spatula with a thin edge can help in flipping without breaking the fillets.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the salmon in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking. This not only imparts taste but also helps keep the fish moist. If you're using wild-caught salmon, which can be more delicate, adjust your cooking time slightly down to avoid overcooking, aiming for an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Glaze the Salmon

Once the salmon is cooked, pour the strawberry balsamic glaze over the fillets in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for another minute to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Serve the salmon warm, drizzled with additional glaze, and garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add chopped fresh basil or mint as a garnish before serving. This will complement the glaze and add a pop of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

When plating this dish, consider serving the salmon over a bed of lightly sautéed spinach or beside a fresh arugula salad for a vibrant contrast. The acidity of the strawberries pairs well with creamy elements, so a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can enhance the dish. To add a crunch, experiment with a garnish of toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios that complement the flavors without overpowering them.

For a complete meal, you can pair this salmon with a side of quinoa or wild rice to soak up the delicious glaze. If you're looking for a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted asparagus or seasonal vegetables that have been tossed with olive oil and sea salt. These sides enhance the overall meal without detracting from the star of the show.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and glaze separately in airtight containers. The salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat until just heated through. Avoid using the microwave as it can dry out the salmon.

The strawberry balsamic glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be drizzled on grilled vegetables or used as a salad dressing, making it a versatile addition to your meal prep. When reheating the glaze, add a splash of water if it has thickened too much, allowing it to regain its pourable consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in the glaze.

→ What can I serve with this salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I grill the salmon instead?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor that pairs well with the strawberry glaze.