Savory Balsamic-Glazed Salmon with Sesame Crunch
Elevate your dinner with this delectable Savory Balsamic-Glazed Salmon, featuring a delightful mix of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar combined with stone-ground Dijon mustard. This 30-minute recipe showcases salmon fillets roasted to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The finishing touch? A sprinkle of sesame seeds that adds both a visual appeal and a satisfying crunch. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad, ensuring a well-rounded meal that's as nutritious as it is flavorful.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
salmon fillets
4 (skin-on)
balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
honey
2 tablespoons (or packed brown sugar)
stone ground Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (none)
sesame oil
2 teaspoons (or olive oil)
sesame seeds
1 teaspoon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will help achieve a perfect roast.
2
Line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
3
Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them for even cooking.
4
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), Dijon mustard, and sesame oil until well combined.
5
Generously spoon or spread the balsamic mixture over the salmon, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
6
If using, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the glazed salmon to add a delightful crunch.
7
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for approximately 11-12 minutes for every inch of thickness, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
8
Once cooked, carefully use a thin spatula to remove the salmon from the pan, leaving the skin behind on the foil.
9
Plate the salmon and serve immediately for best enjoyment. Accompany with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
This recipe is called Savory Balsamic-Glazed Salmon with Sesame Crunch.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this salmon?
The recipe is categorized under recipes that take less than 30 minutes to complete.
What oven temperature is required for roasting?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to achieve a perfect roast.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What ingredients are needed for the balsamic glaze?
The glaze consists of balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), stone-ground Dijon mustard, and sesame oil (or olive oil).
Can I use something other than honey in the glaze?
Yes, you can substitute honey with packed brown sugar.
Is the salmon cooked with the skin on or off?
The recipe uses skin-on salmon fillets, arranged skin-side down on the baking sheet.
How do I ensure an easy cleanup after cooking?
Line your baking sheet or shallow baking dish with aluminum foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
How long should the salmon bake?
Bake the salmon for approximately 11-12 minutes for every inch of thickness.
How can I tell if the salmon is finished cooking?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
What adds the crunch to this recipe?
A sprinkle of sesame seeds over the top of the glazed salmon provides a satisfying crunch.
Is there a substitute for sesame oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil if sesame oil is unavailable.
What type of mustard is best for this glaze?
Stone-ground Dijon mustard is recommended for this recipe.
How should the salmon be arranged on the pan?
Arrange the fillets skin-side down with enough space between them to ensure even cooking.
Should I eat the skin?
The instructions suggest using a thin spatula to remove the cooked salmon from the pan, leaving the skin behind on the foil.
What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a refreshing fresh salad.
Is this recipe suitable for a paleo diet?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as paleo-friendly.
Is this a low-carb meal?
Yes, this dish is categorized as a low-carb meal.
How many main ingredients are required?
There are 6 main ingredients: salmon fillets, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
What is the texture of the salmon after roasting?
The salmon should have a crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior.
How is the glaze applied?
The balsamic mixture should be generously spooned or spread over each salmon piece until evenly coated.
Can I serve this for a special occasion?
Yes, its visual appeal and elevated flavor profile make it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
What type of balsamic vinegar should I use?
Standard balsamic vinegar is used for the glaze to provide a tangy flavor.
Are the sesame seeds mandatory?
No, the sesame seeds are optional and primarily used for garnish and texture.
What is the role of sesame oil in the recipe?
Sesame oil is used in the glaze to add a nutty flavor profile.
How many salmon fillets does the recipe call for?
The recipe calls for 4 salmon fillets.
What is the primary cooking method used?
The primary cooking method is oven roasting at a high temperature.
Is this recipe considered a quick dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick dinner and a 30-minute recipe.
How do you mix the glaze ingredients?
Whisk the balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, and oil together in a small bowl until well combined.
Should the salmon be served hot?
Yes, the recipe recommends plating and serving the salmon immediately for the best enjoyment.