This Grilled Salmon with Blackberry Balsamic Glaze is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. You’ll love how the sweet and tangy glaze complements the rich salmon, creating a dish that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. It’s a perfect addition to your collection of healthy blackberry recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Salmon Fillets: Use skin-on or skinless. Cod or halibut are great alternatives.
- Blackberries: Fresh or frozen work well. Other berries like raspberries can also be used.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Choose a good quality one for the best flavor. Apple cider vinegar can be a substitute in a pinch.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is best, but garlic powder works too.
Ingredients
For the Blackberry Balsamic Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Grilled Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
- Tools Needed: Small saucepan, grilling pan or outdoor grill, brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Glaze
Combine blackberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blackberries break down and the glaze thickens slightly.
2. Strain the Glaze (Optional)
For a smoother glaze, press the blackberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard any seeds or pulp. This step is optional but creates a more refined texture for your healthy blackberry recipes.
3. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This ensures your salmon cooks perfectly.
4. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush them lightly with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill, skin-side down if applicable. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Glaze the Salmon
During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, generously brush the salmon with the blackberry balsamic glaze. Continue grilling briefly to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.
7. Serve and Garnish
Remove the grilled salmon from the heat and transfer it to serving plates. Drizzle with any remaining glaze and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and healthy blackberry recipe!
Variation Ideas
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick.
- Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for an herbal note.
- Serve the salmon over a bed of quinoa or roasted vegetables.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished salmon for brightness.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a microwave or oven until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the fish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, thaw frozen salmon completely before grilling for best results.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
A: Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling it?
A: Absolutely! Bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, glazing in the last few minutes.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes, grilled salmon makes a great protein component for healthy meal prep throughout the week.
Q: What can I serve with this salmon?
A: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad are excellent choices.
Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the blackberry balsamic glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
