Get ready to elevate your cooking game with the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar! This versatile ingredient can add a depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from savory meats and roasted vegetables to sweet desserts and refreshing salads. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered with these 19 flavorful balsamic vinegar recipes.
From classic combinations like balsamic glazed chicken thighs and caprese salad with balsamic reduction, to innovative pairings like grilled peach and balsamic flatbread and balsamic fig and goat cheese crostini, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get creative, and discover the many wonders of balsamic vinegar in the kitchen!
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Elevate the classic Caprese salad by adding a rich and tangy balsamic reduction, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a simple yet impressive side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Balsamic vinegar (high-quality, thick-bodied)
– Optional: bread or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese rounds.
3. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To make balsamic reduction:
– Bring 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
6. Drizzle the warm balsamic reduction over the salad.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (balsamic reduction only)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar: A Simple yet Elegant Side Dish
Brussels sprouts get a sweet and tangy makeover when roasted to perfection and tossed with balsamic vinegar. This recipe is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
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 for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with garlic.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water.
6. Pour the balsamic mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, all on a bed of crisp spinach leaves. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves.
2. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the spinach.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped nuts over the strawberries.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze and olive oil over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Peach and Balsamic Flatbread
This Grilled Peach and Balsamic Flatbread recipe combines the natural sweetness of grilled peaches with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, all on a crispy flatbread base.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, sliced
– 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread (8-10 inches)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the flatbread with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the flatbread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, brush the peach slices with balsamic glaze and grill them for 1-2 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Assemble the flatbreads by topping the grilled crust with the grilled peaches and a sprinkle of salt.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with this rich and savory Balsamic Garlic Butter Steak recipe. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, balsamic glaze, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
5. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until desired level of doneness is reached.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Medley
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful medley of roasted veggies, infused with the rich taste of balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, zucchinis, bell peppers, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and tangy balsamic glazed salmon recipe. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, honey, and garlic.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Honey Roasted Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavors of balsamic glaze and honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tsp pure honey
– Salt and pepper 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, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze and honey. Toss to coat.
6. Return to oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until glaze is sticky and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory Balsamic Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 12-15 crostini)
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fig jam or preserves
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Spread a small amount of goat cheese onto each crostini round.
4. Top with a dollop of fig jam and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting baguette slices)
Balsamic Portobello Mushroom Burgers
These savory burgers are a twist on the classic patty, featuring meaty portobello mushrooms marinated in a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Grill mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Assemble burgers by placing grilled mushrooms on hamburger buns.
6. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful twist on traditional roasted cauliflower, elevated by the tanginess of balsamic glaze and the richness of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or 1 tbsp regular balsamic vinegar)
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together balsamic glaze (or regular balsamic vinegar) and parmesan cheese.
6. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss with the balsamic-parmesan mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Grilled Zucchini and Squash
This sweet and tangy recipe brings out the best of summer’s bounty, elevating grilled zucchini and squash to a whole new level. A drizzle of rich balsamic glaze adds depth and complexity to this simple yet impressive side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 medium yellow squash
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice zucchini and squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
6. Drizzle glaze over grilled vegetables; garnish with chopped basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Blueberry Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and savory Balsamic Blueberry Grilled Chicken recipe, perfect for a summer evening. With the bold flavors of balsamic glaze and fresh blueberries, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, and honey.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush blueberries with remaining balsamic glaze (if using frozen, thaw first).
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Garlic Hummus
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory hummus recipe infused with the deep flavors of roasted garlic and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 3 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap 3 cloves of garlic in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted garlic, balsamic glaze, tahini, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil and water. Continue blending until creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pork tenderloin, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The rich flavors of balsamic glaze complement the natural sweetness of the pork, making it a standout dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 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 brown sugar.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
5. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Watermelon Feta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of balsamic glaze and the creaminess of feta cheese. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced watermelon (seedless)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon.
2. Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces and add it to the watermelon.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil just before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Herb Marinated Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your next barbecue or dinner party with these flavorful and visually appealing shrimp skewers, infused with the rich taste of balsamic vinegar and a hint of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, parsley, basil, and garlic.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Balsamic Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your tart game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, flaky pastry, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat with olive oil and butter until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 30 minutes).
3. Stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Spread the onion mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll out remaining pastry to form a crust. Place on top of onions, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 19 flavorful balsamic vinegar recipes, perfect for any occasion! From savory dishes like Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs and Balsamic Garlic Butter Steak, to sweet treats like Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad and Balsamic Watermelon Feta Salad. You’ll also find a variety of vegetable-based recipes, such as Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar and Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Medley. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party dish, these balsamic vinegar recipes are sure to impress!
