Looking for a way to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor? Look no further than balsamic vinegar! This sweet and sour condiment has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and its versatility knows no bounds. From savory sauces to refreshing salads, balsamic vinegar is the perfect addition to any dish.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 tangy balsamic vinegar recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes have got you covered. From classic dishes like Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Garlic Butter to sweet treats like Strawberry Balsamic Shortcake, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious and easy-to-make balsamic vinegar recipes.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Garlic Butter
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze and garlic butter to create a decadent salmon dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, mix together balsamic glaze and softened butter until well combined.
5. Spread half of the glaze mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Sprinkle minced garlic over the glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Celebrate the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this classic Caprese salad, elevated by a rich balsamic reduction. This colorful and flavorful combination is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small saucepan, reduce the balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened and syrupy (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Arrange tomato slices on a serving plate or platter.
4. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of basil leaves.
5. Drizzle the reduced balsamic glaze over the salad, followed by a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including reduction time)
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A sweet and savory twist on a classic roasted vegetable dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the richness of balsamic glaze and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- Meanwhile, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Baste Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Toss cooked bacon with roasted Brussels sprouts. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes total (roasting and cooking bacon)
Strawberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze to create a unique and flavorful grilled chicken dish. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is grilling, combine sliced strawberries with balsamic glaze in a small saucepan.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer strawberry mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
7. Brush the strawberry-balsamic glaze onto the grilled chicken breasts during the last minute of cooking.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Mushroom and Onion Pizza
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of balsamic glaze, caramelized onions, and earthy mushrooms on a crispy pizza crust. The result is a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a large skillet, cook mushrooms and onions in olive oil over medium-low heat until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
4. Spread cooked mushroom and onion mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze and sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Honey Glazed Pork Tenderloin
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic pork tenderloin recipe. This Balsamic Honey Glazed Pork Tenderloin is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic until well combined.
3. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle is a refreshing twist on traditional summer salads, featuring the sweetness of grilled peaches paired with creamy burrata cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar (about 2 tbsp)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill peach wedges for about 3-4 minutes per side, until caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and grilled peaches.
3. Slice the burrata cheese into thick rounds and place on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar over the salad.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Garlic Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. By combining the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In the last 2-3 minutes of roasting, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the vegetables.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive Balsamic Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini recipe. The sweetness of caramelized figs pairs perfectly with the tanginess of goat cheese, all tied together with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Top each toasted crostini with crumbled goat cheese.
4. Spoon caramelized figs over the goat cheese.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the figs.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting baguette slices)
Note: To caramelize figs, heat 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of chopped dried figs and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
Balsamic Beef and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a tangy balsamic glaze for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and onion to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth and balsamic vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and bring the stew to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 1-2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Balsamic Blueberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of melted cheddar, caramelized blueberries, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheddar cheese, blueberries, and balsamic glaze.
5. Place the second slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar and the earthiness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and honey.
6. Sprinkle thyme over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a deliciously crispy chicken package. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breast with salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil on the chicken and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, heat balsamic glaze over medium-low heat until caramelized.
5. Assemble salad by placing mixed greens on a plate, topping with diced avocado, crispy chicken, and drizzling with balsamic glaze.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizers with this simple yet impressive recipe featuring balsamic glazed portobello mushrooms. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an elegant starter, these earthy delights are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushroom slices.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Strawberry Shortcake
Elevate your shortcake game with this unique recipe that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, toss strawberries with sugar and let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If using homemade shortcake biscuits, bake according to recipe instructions. Otherwise, follow package instructions for thawing or baking.
3. Split shortcakes in half lengthwise.
4. Spoon some of the sugared strawberries over the bottom half of each biscuit.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze (or mixture) over the strawberries.
6. Top with the top half of the shortcake.
7. Serve immediately, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (shortcake baking time)
Balsamic Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant
Savor the sweetness of summer with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the tender texture of grilled zucchini and eggplant with the tangy zip of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of zucchini and eggplant slices with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon water.
6. Brush glaze over grilled vegetables during the last minute of grilling.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this sweet and savory tart, featuring caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and a hint of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onion slices over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown. Stir in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the caramelized onions over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top with goat cheese crumbles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad
A sweet and tangy pasta salad perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the tomato-balsamic mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Braised Short Ribs
This recipe yields tender and juicy short ribs slow-cooked in a rich balsamic glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add balsamic vinegar, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Cover pot and transfer to oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until short ribs are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Balsamic Watermelon and Feta Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these refreshing Balsamic Watermelon and Feta Skewers, perfect for warm weather entertaining. The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and tangy balsamic glaze is sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon chunks
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread watermelon and feta onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over the top of each skewer.
4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the feta is slightly melted and caramelized.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 20 tangy balsamic vinegar recipes! From savory dishes like Balsamic Glazed Salmon and Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts, to sweet treats like Strawberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken and Balsamic Shortcake, there’s something for every occasion. Plus, unique combinations like Balsamic Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini and Balsamic Blueberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight. So go ahead, get tangy with balsamic vinegar!
Leave a Reply