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 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I absolutely love bringing together fresh ingredients in creative ways, which is why this Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is a favorite of mine. The combination of savory salmon and sweet, tangy strawberry glaze creates a delicious contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the fantastic flavors that this dish brings to the table.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:37:34.299Z

When I first tried combining strawberries with salmon, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they complemented each other. The sweet, fruity notes of the strawberry glaze blend beautifully with the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon. I often experiment with fresh herbs and spices to enhance the taste even further, and I suggest adding a hint of black pepper to elevate the flavor profile.

One memorable dinner with friends featured this dish, and everyone couldn't stop raving about how the flavors danced on their palates. The process is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for those who are short on time but still want to impress their guests. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicious balance of savory and sweet
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Impressive enough for entertaining guests

      

The Role of Strawberries in the Glaze

Fresh strawberries are the star of the glaze, offering a vibrant flavor that beautifully contrasts the richness of the salmon. Their natural sweetness helps balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar, creating a harmonious sweet-tangy profile. To achieve the best results, choose ripe strawberries, as they will impart a deeper flavor and a beautiful color to the glaze. Avoid overcooking the strawberries; they should soften but still retain some texture, creating a delightful sauce that clings to the fish.

Using a high-quality balsamic vinegar will elevate this dish significantly. Aged balsamic vinegar has a thicker consistency and a more intense flavor, which enhances the glaze's overall taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute with red wine vinegar, but add a touch more honey to compensate for the lost sweetness.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

When cooking salmon, precision is key to achieving the perfect texture. I recommend cooking the fillets skin-side down first; this allows the fat to render out, resulting in a crispy skin that many people love. Keep an eye on the fillets; once you see the edges start to turn golden and the flesh changes color from dark pink to a lighter hue, it’s almost ready to flip. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for the juiciest result, but pull it off the heat a couple of degrees before it reaches that point, as it will continue to cook after removal.

If you prefer a caramelized crust, consider adding a sprinkle of brown sugar on top of the salmon before cooking. This technique will create a delightful crust and add a wonderful depth of flavor when paired with the glaze. Just be cautious not to let it burn; the sugar can caramelize quickly at high heat.

Ingredients

To make this delicious salmon dish, you'll need the following 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 tablespoon Dijon mustard

These ingredients will combine to create an incredible flavor experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Salmon with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze:

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium-low heat and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

While the glaze is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Combine and Serve

Once cooked, plate the salmon and drizzle the strawberry balsamic glaze over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Enjoy your salmon dish with a side of your choice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider garnishing with fresh basil or mint before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a fresh and healthy meal. Consider using asparagus or green beans, as their crunch complements the tender salmon beautifully. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or wild rice, which will soak up the excess glaze, making for a deliciously cohesive dish.

For a casual gathering, serve the salmon flaked over mixed greens with the strawberry balsamic drizzle for an elegant yet approachable presentation. Adding toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts will provide a satisfying crunch and additional nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The strawberry balsamic glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to use, simply reheat gently on the stove until warm. This makes dinner prep a breeze on busy weeknights, allowing you to focus on cooking the salmon.

If you have leftovers, store the glazed salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This method will help retain the fish’s moisture without overcooking it, preserving that perfect flakiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon can be used. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for strawberries?

You can use raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.