When it comes to cooking salmon, many people get stuck in a rut. They know they should be eating more fish for its numerous health benefits, but they don’t know how to prepare it in a way that’s exciting and flavorful. The good news is that there are countless ways to cook salmon, and we’re here to help you discover some of the best ones. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious savory salmon recipes.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon herb, to international inspirations like teriyaki and Cajun blackened, there’s something on this list for every taste and occasion. So go ahead, get cooking, and start enjoying the amazing benefits of salmon in a whole new way!
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful salmon fillet with a rich garlic butter crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Glazed Salmon with Soy Sauce
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make honey glazed salmon recipe, infused with the richness of soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic grilled salmon recipe, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through to desired doneness.
5. Remove from grill and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Maple Dijon Roasted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard. This dish is perfect for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Crusted Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and moist Pesto Crusted Salmon recipe. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a savory crust that complements the delicate flavor of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 pesto, garlic, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the pesto mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Pineapple
This Asian-inspired dish combines the rich flavor of salmon with the sweetness of pineapple, all wrapped up in a sticky teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil over the top of each fillet.
7. Top with pineapple chunks.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Sriracha Salmon recipe. A perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the Sriracha glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cajun Blackened Salmon
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the rich taste of blackened salmon, creating a dish that’s both spicy and savory. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a plate or tray. Sprinkle both sides evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets, blackened side down (the side coated with spices).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with a tangy and creamy dill sauce, creating a delicious and impressive dish perfect for any occasion. With minimal preparation time, this recipe is ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 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 yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
5. Spoon the creamy sauce 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
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional salmon, this Balsamic Glazed Salmon recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. With a rich balsamic glaze and a crispy skin, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 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 vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
5. Brush the glaze over the salmon fillets, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon en Papillote with Herbs
This classic French recipe is a simple yet impressive way to prepare salmon, allowing the delicate flavors of the fish and herbs to shine. By baking it in parchment paper, the salmon cooks evenly and stays moist.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of parchment paper into large squares.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each square.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add a lemon slice on top of each fillet.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, sealing it by folding the edges twice to prevent steam from escaping.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Miso Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory miso glaze adds a depth of flavor to seared salmon, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, sake, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the glaze.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled salmon with the creamy, tangy taste of avocado salsa. A perfect combination for a quick and healthy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled salmon with avocado salsa spooned over the top.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Garlic Spinach
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this simple yet elegant recipe, featuring pan-seared salmon paired with a savory garlic spinach sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until a crust forms.
5. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
7. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
8. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
9. Serve the salmon with the garlic spinach sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Tacos with Lime Crema
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, featuring succulent salmon fillets wrapped in crispy tortillas and topped with a zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below for recipe)
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of salmon on each tortilla, then topping with cilantro, onion, and lime crema.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packets
Streamline your dinner prep with these flavorful foil packets that cook salmon and asparagus to perfection. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, this recipe yields tender fish and crisp vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each square.
4. Arrange asparagus spears around the fish, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a packet, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add salmon fillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add bell peppers, snow peas, red onion, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return salmon to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Chowder with Corn
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Smoked salmon adds a rich, savory taste to this comforting corn chowder.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add diced tomatoes, corn kernels, smoked salmon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in half-and-half or heavy cream. Bring mixture to simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
A delicious appetizer or snack that combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 6 slices of smoked salmon (about 3 ounces)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 10-12 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and chopped dill.
3. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
5. Place 2 slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese mixture.
6. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the tortilla to form a neat package.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Place the rolled-up tortillas seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salmon Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Transform fresh salmon into crispy cakes served with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and Dijon mustard. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with Remoulade Sauce.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your taste buds with these 20 delicious savory salmon recipes! From classic garlic butter baked salmon to more adventurous options like teriyaki salmon with pineapple, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at miso glazed salmon or cajun blackened salmon for a flavorful twist. For a lighter option, opt for lemon herb grilled salmon or pan-seared salmon with garlic spinach. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these savory salmon recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
