Description
This Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Asparagus is a delicious and healthy sheet pan dinner featuring tender salmon fillets roasted alongside fresh asparagus, all coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic honey glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, the glaze adds a rich depth of flavor while the roasting method keeps the salmon juicy and the asparagus crisp-tender.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Vegetables
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on one side of the sheet and arrange the trimmed asparagus on the other side.
- Season Vegetables and Fish: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus, then season both the salmon fillets and asparagus with salt and black pepper to your taste preference.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, for 4–5 minutes until the glaze slightly thickens.
- Glaze the Salmon: Brush half of the prepared balsamic glaze over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even coating.
- Roast Salmon and Asparagus: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12–15 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and easily flake with a fork, and the asparagus should be tender but still crisp.
- Finish with Remaining Glaze: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the remaining balsamic glaze over the salmon fillets. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- For extra caramelization and a slightly crispy top, broil the salmon for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
- Replace honey with maple syrup to make the glaze vegan-friendly and suitable for plant-based salmon alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
