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A perfectly cooked pan seared salmon, ideal for beginners, with crispy skin.

Zesty Balsamic-Glazed Pan-Seared Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes

This Zesty Balsamic-Glazed Pan-Seared Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes recipe delivers a flavorful and healthy meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 salmon fillets (6-ounce), skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)
  • Paper towels
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  3. Carefully place salmon fillets skin-side down; gently press for 30 seconds to ensure even contact.
  4. Cook undisturbed for 4-6 minutes until skin is crispy and salmon is two-thirds cooked from the bottom.
  5. While salmon cooks, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and dried oregano for the glaze.
  6. Flip the salmon, pour the glaze over the fillets, and add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan.
  7. Continue cooking for 1-3 minutes until the glaze reduces and tomatoes soften; salmon should flake easily or reach 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove salmon and tomatoes from pan, then garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.

Notes

Ensure your salmon fillets are thoroughly dried for the crispiest skin. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets. A meat thermometer is recommended for accuracy to ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection.