Imagine a dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of perfectly grilled salmon with a tantalizing balsamic glaze that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe. This Grilled Balsamic Glazed Salmon is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. With just a few simple ingredients and some grilling magic, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's both impressive and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade for the salmon. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of honey, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Whisk together until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well blended.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste. Place the fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the balsamic marinade over the top, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn down until they are covered with white ash. If using a gas grill, preheat for about 10 minutes.
- While the grill is heating, remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade, as it has come into contact with raw fish.
- Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- After 4-5 minutes, carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula. Grill for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will help the juices redistribute within the fish.
- Serve the grilled balsamic glazed salmon on a plate, optionally drizzling any remaining balsamic glaze from the grill over the top. Pair with your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon: Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon with a bright, vibrant color and firm texture.
- Marinating magic: Don't skip the marinating step! Even 15 minutes can infuse incredible flavor into the fish.
- Grill temperature matters: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat to get those beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking.
- Watch the cooking time: Salmon cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it dry, so aim for a slightly translucent center.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest: Always let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to help the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Oil the grill grates: This prevents sticking and helps create those beautiful grill marks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 385kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
