Are you looking for a flavorful and healthy addition to your meal routine? Look no further than salmon! This omega-rich fish is not only packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly versatile. From classic dishes like grilled salmon to more adventurous options like salmon sushi rolls, there’s a way to prepare it that suits every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and easy weeknight meal, these 20 delicious fun salmon recipes are sure to impress. From appetizers to main courses and even desserts (yes, you read that right!), we’ve got a salmon recipe for every situation. So, get ready to dive into the world of salmon and discover new flavors and inspiration.
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these sweet and savory salmon skewers, smothered in a rich teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add salmon pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with glaze.
4. Thread 3-4 salmon pieces onto each skewer.
5. Place skewers on grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Brush with additional teriyaki glaze during last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the fusion of flavors from Mexico and Asia with these succulent grilled salmon tacos served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture on both sides of salmon fillets.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled salmon, mango salsa, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Salmon Bites with Spicy Mayo
A simple yet flavorful appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Crispy salmon bites coated in a spicy mayo make for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each salmon cube into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated salmon bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
6. Serve warm with spicy mayo for dipping. Garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Avocado Sushi Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, this recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the creamy texture of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place 2-3 slices of avocado and 1/4 cup of flaked salmon in the middle of the rice.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
5. Slice into 8 equal pieces.
6. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including preparation time)
Grilled Salmon with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled salmon with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa, making for a perfect summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a bowl, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salsa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve grilled salmon with pineapple salsa spooned on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (grilling time plus prep)
Salmon Burgers with Dill Aioli
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful salmon patties, paired with a tangy and creamy dill aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wild-caught salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
– Dill Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the dill aioli by mixing all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
7. Spread a dollop of dill aioli on each bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time included)
Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a sweet pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together salmon, cream cheese, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the salmon mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Maple-Glazed Salmon with Pecans
Elevate your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of salmon, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the crunch of pecans. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 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.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and Dijon mustard.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1/2 inch border around each fillet.
6. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful bowl filled with tender salmon, mixed greens, and a savory sesame dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sushi-grade salmon, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame dressing:
+ 1/2 cup tahini
+ 3 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 2 tablespoons water
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Edible flowers or microgreens for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger. Add the salmon pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the salmon according to package instructions or grill/pan-fry until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame dressing ingredients until smooth.
4. Assemble the bowls by placing mixed greens on the bottom, followed by the cooked salmon, and finishing with the sesame dressing drizzled on top. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packets
A flavorful and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of aluminum foil, heavy-duty
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces.
3. Place a salmon fillet on each piece of foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Divide the asparagus and garlic among the four packets, placing them on top of the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients, making sure they are fully enclosed.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Salmon Fried Rice
This spicy salmon fried rice recipe combines the flavors of Asia with a twist of heat. It’s a simple and satisfying dish that can be ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced salmon fillet
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ginger and cooked salmon; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sriracha sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salmon and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of salmon and the nutrients of spinach, perfect for a healthy and delicious dinner. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 1/2 cup cooked salmon fillet, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together salmon, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the salmon-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with these flavorful Salmon Caesar Salad Wraps! Pan-seared salmon fillets, crispy romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing come together in a delicious and refreshing twist on the classic salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, wash and dry the romaine lettuce leaves. Tear into bite-sized pieces.
3. Warm the tortilla wraps in the microwave or oven.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a piece of seared salmon, some Caesar-dressed romaine lettuce, and a sprinkle of parsley or dill onto each wrap.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Mustard Salmon Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful honey mustard salmon nuggets, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer. This simple recipe combines the richness of salmon with the sweetness of honey and tanginess of mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into small nugget-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, honey, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Dip each salmon piece into the beaten egg, then coat in the honey-mustard mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated nuggets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle with cooking oil or non-stick spray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Sweet Potato Cakes
These flavorful cakes combine the richness of salmon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a healthy and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, sweet potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, and egg. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired cake size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spray or brush with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cakes are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Cucumber Canapés
These refreshing canapés are perfect for a summer gathering or a light and easy appetizer. Smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber come together to create a flavorful and visually appealing bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers or baguette slices for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together flaked salmon, softened cream cheese, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the salmon-cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and the cucumbers are tender.
6. Serve warm on crackers or baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic pasta dish, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter with the richness of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb salmon fillet (cooked and flaked)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and cooked salmon to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the salmon mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavor of salmon with sweet corn and creamy potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add salmon, corn, potato, and flour. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and milk or heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the richness of salmon with the nutty taste of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz salmon fillet, flaked
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, salmon, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each tomato half with the salmon-quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Berry Summer Salad
Savor the flavors of summer with this refreshing salad featuring grilled salmon, juicy berries, and crunchy greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, berries, feta cheese, and mint leaves.
4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad; toss to coat.
5. Slice grilled salmon into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including grilling time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with these 20 delicious salmon recipes, perfect for every occasion! From savory bites like Crispy Salmon Bites with Spicy Mayo and Honey Mustard Salmon Nuggets, to sweet treats like Maple-Glazed Salmon with Pecans and Salmon and Berry Summer Salad, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian-inspired dishes like Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Skewers or Mexican-flavored recipes like Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa, these mouthwatering creations will surely satisfy your cravings.
