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Salmon Caprese with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

This Salmon Caprese with Balsamic Glaze recipe combines tender, oven-baked salmon topped with creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy grape tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, this 25-minute dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures inspired by the classic Caprese salad.

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1.75 pounds salmon (4 pieces)
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Caprese Toppings

  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (do not substitute regular mozzarella)
  • 16 grape tomatoes
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 6 medium basil leaves
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking pan such as a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent the salmon from sticking during baking.
  2. Prepare Salmon: Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and check for any bones, removing them if found. Pat the salmon dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure proper cooking and browning.
  3. Season Salmon: Place the salmon skin side down on the prepared pan. Drizzle one teaspoon of olive oil over each fillet and spread evenly with a brush or fingers. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on each piece to taste.
  4. Slice Mozzarella: Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into rounds about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring slices are no thicker than 1/2 inch. Place two slices (or three if fish size allows) of mozzarella on top of each salmon piece, spreading evenly in a single layer.
  5. Prepare Tomatoes: Rinse the grape tomatoes and dry them well. Slice them in half, and if they are large, slice each half once more. Distribute the tomatoes over the mozzarella on each salmon fillet. Lightly sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper on top; avoid adding more salt because the cheese is already salty.
  6. Bake Salmon: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Thinner salmon cuts may require just 15 minutes.
  7. Prepare Basil: While the salmon bakes, rinse and pat dry the basil leaves. Remove the stems, then roll each leaf tightly and slice into thin ribbons approximately 1/4-inch thick.
  8. Serve: After baking, carefully remove the salmon from the pan. To serve, remove any skin by sliding a spatula between the skin and the salmon and lifting the fish off the skin. Top each fillet with fresh basil ribbons and drizzle with balsamic glaze to finish.
  9. Store Leftovers: Place any remaining salmon in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to four days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella cheese specifically, as it melts differently than regular mozzarella, contributing to the authentic texture of the dish.
  • If your salmon fillets are thinner, reduce baking time to ensure the salmon does not dry out.
  • Removing the skin after baking helps maintain the presentation and texture when serving.
  • Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, but can be substituted with a balsamic reduction made at home.
  • This recipe pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Salt