When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your dishes, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as balsamic vinegar. With its tangy, slightly sweet taste, it’s a natural pairing for everything from rich meats to fresh vegetables. In this article, we’ll explore 20 savory balsamic vinegar recipes that showcase the condiment’s incredible range. From classic combinations like glazes for salmon or roasted Brussels sprouts, to more unexpected pairings like strawberry and peach salads, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your cooking.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, balsamic vinegar is an ingredient worth getting familiar with. With its rich history and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that this beloved condiment has become a staple in many cuisines around the world.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with succulent salmon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
5. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Italy’s most iconic salad, elevated by a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad in a zig-zag pattern.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined.
5. Slowly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, allowing it to pool slightly between each component.
6. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook, assemble-it-yourself recipe.
Balsamic Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted vegetables with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
6. After the vegetables have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the balsamic glaze.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Balsamic Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a summer dinner or BBQ gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together strawberry slices, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the strawberry mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and honey.
3. Brush both sides of the mushroom caps with the balsamic glaze.
4. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Balsamic Braised Short Ribs
This classic Italian-inspired recipe transforms short ribs into tender, flavorful morsels by slow-cooking them in a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add balsamic vinegar, red wine (if using), beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot; cover with a lid or foil.
7. Braise in the oven for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Balsamic Fig Jam
This rich and flavorful jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses. With the sweetness of figs and the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, this jam is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black mission figs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the figs, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the figs are tender.
3. Add the balsamic vinegar and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Garlic Pork Tenderloin
A sweet and savory twist on a classic dish, this Balsamic Garlic Pork Tenderloin recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and brush with balsamic glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a sweet and tangy delight with this easy recipe. By roasting the sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, you’ll be rewarded with caramelized flavors that will become your new favorite side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, honey, and balsamic glaze until well coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Peach and Burrata Salad
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this salad combines the juiciness of peaches with the creaminess of burrata cheese, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches.
2. Cut open the burrata cheese ball and break it into small pieces.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the peaches and toss to coat.
4. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss again.
5. Gently fold in the burrata cheese pieces.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Beef Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, rich balsamic vinegar, and a blend of vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add carrots, potatoes, balsamic vinegar, beef broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return browned beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Balsamic Marinated Steak
Add a tangy twist to your steak game with this simple yet flavorful balsamic marinated steak recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Add the steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish or sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the balsamic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Strawberry Shortcake
Elevate your classic shortcake game with the sweet and tangy combination of fresh strawberries, balsamic glaze, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, butter, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until combined.
4. Pour batter into an ungreased 9-inch round cake pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
6. Slice shortcake into 1-inch thick rounds.
7. Top each round with sliced strawberries, a dollop of whipped cream, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Shrimp Skewers
Impress your guests with these bite-sized Balsamic Shrimp Skewers, perfect for a quick appetizer or main course. The tangy balsamic glaze pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
5. Place skewers on grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Balsamic Herb Bread Dip
A sweet and savory twist on traditional bread dip, this Balsamic Herb Bread Dip is perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With the tanginess of balsamic glaze and the freshness of herbs, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together butter, balsamic glaze, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the bread dip on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these roasted sweet potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. While sweet potatoes are roasting, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a small bowl.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and brush with the balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Tomato Basil Soup
This sweet and tangy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, combining the richness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil and the depth of balsamic vinegar. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Blueberry Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Blueberry Cheesecake, featuring a velvety blueberry compote and a hint of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then sugar, vanilla extract, and blueberries. Mix well.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before drizzling with balsamic glaze and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Elevate your cooking with these 20 savory balsamic vinegar recipes! From sweet and tangy to bold and rich, this collection of dishes showcases the versatility of balsamic vinegar. Try using it as a glaze for salmon or pork tenderloin, add a drizzle to a caprese salad or roasted vegetables, or use it to marinate steak or shrimp. The possibilities are endless! These recipes also include sweet treats like strawberry shortcake and blueberry cheesecake. Get inspired and experiment with this tangy condiment in your own kitchen.
