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Salmon with Agrodolce Sauce

This elegant salmon with agrodolce sauce is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can create deep, sophisticated flavours. The star of the dish is the classic Italian-style sweet and sour glaze, made by reducing balsamic vinegar with red onions until sticky and rich. Paired with perfectly seared salmon, the acidity of the sauce cuts through the natural oils of the fish, creating a balanced and refined main course that feels special without being complicated to prepare.

As a heart-healthy option, this dish is packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants from the onions. It is a fantastic choice for those looking for a light yet satisfying dinner that fits into a nutritious Mediterranean-style diet. Serve it alongside some steamed seasonal greens or crushed new potatoes to soak up the delicious syrupy glaze.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Salmon with Agrodolce Sauce

  • 45ml olive oil, divided

  • 4 (170g) salmon fillets (1 inch thick) with skin

  • 2 medium red onions (about 450g total), each cut into 8 wedges

  • 160ml balsamic vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

How to make Salmon with Agrodolce Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Pat salmon dry and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper, then cook, skin side up, until undersides form a golden crust, 12 to 15 minutes. Turn fish over and cook until just cooked through, about 3 minutes more.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then sauté onions until golden brown and crisp-tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoons salt and cook until sauce is syrupy, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter.

Spoon onions with sauce onto plates and top with salmon, skin side down.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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