If you’re in need of an elegant meal that comes together in a flash, look no further than Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus. This recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: tender, flaky salmon, vibrant roasted asparagus, and a glossy glaze that walks the line between tangy and sweet. You’ll love how the balsamic reduction and honey caramelize under high heat, infusing every bite with irresistible depth while letting the vegetables and fish truly shine. It’s a dish that feels both restaurant-worthy and completely doable at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is in its simplicity: fresh, quality ingredients come together to create a balanced, flavorful meal. Every component has its role, from the richness of the salmon to the brightness of the asparagus and that signature balsamic glaze.
- Salmon fillets: Opt for four fillets, about 6 ounces each; skin-on or off, as you prefer, and look for vibrant, glossy flesh for ultimate freshness.
- Fresh asparagus: One bunch, trimmed to remove any woody ends, adds crispness and a pop of green that brightens the whole plate.
- Olive oil: Two tablespoons help everything roast beautifully and bring subtle, fruity richness to the dish.
- Salt: Just half a teaspoon to season the fish and veggies perfectly—not too little, not too much!
- Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon is enough to add gentle warmth that enhances all the other flavors.
- Balsamic vinegar: A quarter cup for that inky, tangy base; use good-quality vinegar for best results.
- Honey: Two tablespoons offer natural sweetness, helping the glaze caramelize and balance the acidity.
- Dijon mustard: One tablespoon provides a zippy punch that gives the glaze extra dimension and keeps things lively.
- Minced garlic: Two cloves go a long way, infusing the glaze with a savory, aromatic undertone.
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional): A teaspoon sprinkled over just before serving lends herbal brightness and a bit of elegance.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Sheet Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for roasting. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil—this makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. The oven’s steady heat is key for getting perfectly cooked salmon and tender, yet crisp, asparagus.
Step 2: Arrange the Salmon and Asparagus
Lay out the four salmon fillets on one side of the prepared baking sheet and snuggle the asparagus on the other side. Drizzle everything with olive oil and gently toss the asparagus so it glistens. Season both the fish and veggies with salt and pepper, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Balsamic Glaze
In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Whisk everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Glaze and Prepare for Roasting
Brush the thickened balsamic glaze generously over the salmon fillets—don’t be shy here, you want a luscious, sticky coating! Drizzle the remainder over the asparagus for a hint of tangy flavor. If you made extra glaze, save some for serving on the side.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your hot oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon should be just cooked through and flake easily with a fork, while the asparagus turns tender and slightly caramelized at the tips. Want a deeper caramelized finish? Broil for the last 2 minutes before removing from the oven.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Scatter fresh thyme leaves over the top if you’re using them. Their earthy floral aroma perfectly complements the tangy-sweet glaze and rounds out the whole dish. Get ready to make your kitchen smell absolutely divine!
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme is both classic and beautiful on Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus, but you can also get creative with other herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for a fresh pop of color and flavor. A light scatter of lemon zest is another lovely finishing touch that wakes up the entire dish.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy, pair Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus with fluffy quinoa, wild rice, or a creamy risotto. A crusty whole-grain roll to soak up the extra glaze is never a bad idea either!
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, fan the asparagus spears out on each plate and top with a salmon fillet, letting that glossy glaze take center stage. Or, serve everything family-style on a large platter for a more casual gathering. Even in a packed lunchbox, this dish feels like a special treat—try tucking lemon wedges alongside for a fragrant burst when you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the salmon and asparagus in separate airtight containers if possible to preserve their individual textures. A quick tip: drizzle a little extra glaze over the salmon before chilling for maximum flavor!
Freezing
Salmon freezes well, but asparagus can soften after defrosting. If you plan to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon tightly or place in a freezer-safe container and use within one month for the best taste. When reheating, a fresh batch of asparagus is ideal.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat the salmon and asparagus in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can dry out the salmon and make the asparagus mushy. A splash of leftover glaze before reheating helps bring those vibrant flavors right back to life.
FAQs
Can I substitute another vegetable for asparagus?
Absolutely! While asparagus adds lovely color and crispness, Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is also delicious with broccolini, green beans, or even halved Brussels sprouts. Just keep an eye on roasting times so your vegetables don’t overcook.
What type Main Course
Both farmed and wild salmon fillets work well, but wild-caught varieties like sockeye or coho offer a richer, deeper flavor. Just be sure your fillets are similar in thickness so they cook evenly.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and its color has turned opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F at the thickest part. Roasting for 12 to 15 minutes usually hits the sweet spot!
Can the balsamic glaze be made ahead?
Definitely! Prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently just before brushing over the fish, and you’ll have Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus on the table even faster.
Is Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus suitable for special diets?
Yes—this dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian-friendly, making it wonderful for various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a showstopper dinner that’s simple to make but truly special, Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is the answer. Once you taste how the tangy-sweet glaze plays off the flaky fish and crisp veggies, you’ll be hooked. Give it a try soon—you deserve a meal this dazzling!
Print
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus, perfect for a healthy and flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (trimmed)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare Salmon and Asparagus: Arrange the salmon fillets and asparagus on the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Make Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Glaze and Roast: Brush the glaze over the salmon and asparagus. Roast in the oven for 12–15 minutes until salmon is flaky and asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.
Notes
- You can double the glaze and serve extra on the side.
- For a caramelized flavor, broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with asparagus
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
