31 Delicious & Nutritious Salmon Recipes for Easy Weight Loss Dinners

Laura Hauser

April 7, 2025

Gastronomically speaking, incorporating healthier proteins into your diet has never been easier thanks to these nutritious and delicious salmon recipes! Not only is salmon one of the most beneficial seafood choices you can make for your health, but it’s also incredibly versatile in terms of cooking methods. Whether you prefer a light and refreshing lemon garlic dish or something more substantial like tacos, there are countless possibilities to explore.

Salmon boasts an impressive nutritional profile, being rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and more. Best of all, it cooks remarkably quickly, making it the perfect addition to your weekly meal routine.

Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Unlock the secret to making healthier, yet just as delicious, salmon patties using your air fryer! Unlike traditional crab cakes, these patties are packed with protein-rich salmon, parsley, and garlic. To keep things simple, there’s no need for eggs or breadcrumbs, just a touch of flour is used to hold them together. This means you get to enjoy the benefits of high-quality protein and essential Omega-3 fatty acids in every bite!

Whether you prefer to serve them on their own, paired with a fresh salad, or sandwiched between a burger bun, these air fryer salmon patties are sure to become a new favorite. And for an added kick, why not try dipping them in a rich Cajun aioli sauce? See the full recipe now!

Cajun Honey Butter Grilled Salmon

Cajun Honey Butter Grilled Salmon

Yes, grilling salmon can seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The magic happens when you combine Cajun seasoning with a drizzle of sweet honey butter – it’s a match made in heaven. But what if I told you that all the ingredients you need are probably already stocked in your pantry? No need to make a special trip to the store or hunt down exotic spices. With this recipe, you’ll be whipping up delicious grilled salmon in no time.

So, go ahead and fire up the grill – we’re about to get cooking!

Perfect 15-Minute Grilled Salmon

Perfect 15-Minute Grilled Salmon

Bored of serving undercooked or overcooked salmon at your next BBQ? By following these three straightforward steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked salmon every time without fail. Beautifully flaky and tender filets are the result of cooking them correctly, and our simple seasoning blend helps to bring out their natural flavors.

Unlike recipes that rely on rich sauces or elaborate garnishes, this dish lets the fresh flavor of the salmon shine through with just a few carefully selected ingredients.

Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon

Zeroing in on a healthier alternative to grilling, the air fryer is an excellent option when you can’t fire up the grill. This method eliminates the guesswork involved in cooking salmon, making it a convenient and stress-free way to prepare a delicious meal. To get started, simply prep the salmon filets with butter and spices, ensuring they’re evenly coated for optimal flavor. Next, line the air fryer basket with foil to make cleanup a breeze, then carefully place the filets inside.

With the air fryer doing all the work, your salmon will be cooked to perfection in just about 10 minutes, leaving you with a tender and flavorful result.

Healthy Lemon Garlic Salmon

Healthy Lemon Garlic Salmon

When searching for quick yet nutritious meals that are also appetizing, options can be limited. Fortunately, this recipe stands out from the rest. The combination of lemon, garlic, and dill creates a harmonious flavor profile perfect for seasoning salmon. Cooking is straightforward and doesn’t require extensive thought or effort. Simply pan-fry the salmon on each side for a few minutes, and it’s ready to be served.

Light Lemon Garlic Pasta with Salmon

Light Lemon Garlic Pasta with Salmon

Relying on its simplicity and flavor combination, this dish is sure to become one of your favorites. Ranging from the perfectly cooked rigatoni to the succulent salmon, every component comes together in harmony. Recognizing that a healthy meal doesn’t have to be time-consuming, this recipe offers a 30-minute total prep time, allowing you to make it whenever you want, without any hassle.

Sheet Pan Sweet Chili Salmon and Veggies

Sheet Pan Sweet Chili Salmon and Veggies

Dinner emergencies happen, but a quick solution doesn’t have to compromise on flavor. A baking sheet loaded with salmon, asparagus, and bell peppers offers a versatile meal that’s ready in no time. The beauty of this recipe lies in its customizability – the vegetables can be swapped out for your favorites, and the sauce is equally adaptable. Whether you’re a fan of tangy or creamy, there’s an option to satisfy every craving.

Creamy Cajun Stuffed Salmon

Creamy Cajun Stuffed Salmon

Zero in on the perfect dish for your next date night or holiday meal with these incredible Cajun stuffed salmon recipes, versatile enough to be enjoyed any day of the week, whether it’s a special occasion or just an ordinary evening. On the surface, they boast a crispy exterior infused with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. But what truly sets them apart is the delightful surprise within – a rich and creamy cheesy filling that complements the savory flavors of the salmon perfectly.

And don’t worry about dedicating too much time to cooking; these mouth-watering masterpieces can be prepared in just 30 minutes.

One-Pan Salmon Asparagus

One-Pan Salmon Asparagus

Often considered the quintessential pairing for asparagus, salmon is a match made in culinary heaven. Not only do their flavors complement each other beautifully, but they also have similar cooking times, making meal prep a breeze. To elevate this classic combination, give each component a dollop of herby garlic lemon butter, top with an additional slice of lemon, and pop it into the oven to let the flavors meld together in perfect harmony as it cooks.

Creamy Salmon Pasta

Creamy Salmon Pasta

Adding a delicious and nutritious meal option to your family’s repertoire is easier than you think. A simple yet satisfying salmon pasta dish can be created by combining an entire pound of salmon with al dente pasta, then smothering it in a rich creamy garlic sauce infused with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

With its abundant mix of carbs, protein, and vitamins, this meal provides your body with everything it needs to function at its best, from energy-boosting nutrients to essential vitamins.

Miso Salmon

Miso Salmon

Key benefits of miso include its high nutritional value and versatility in cooking. Miso is a fermented Japanese condiment that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and gut-friendly properties, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Not only does it offer several health advantages, but it also adds flavor and depth to various dishes, particularly when paired with salmon.

For those new to miso, the white variety is often a good starting point due to its milder and sweeter flavor profile, which can be elevated by mixing it with tamari, ginger, and mirin for an authentic Asian-inspired salmon sauce.

Salmon Sandwiches

Salmon Sandwiches

A juicy jumbo sandwich is just what you need when you’re craving something satisfying without the guilt. It’s an excellent healthier alternative to a traditional burger, packed with flavor and nutrients that will keep you full for hours. And the best part? It’s incredibly quick to prepare. Simply season the filets, fire up the grill, and in under 10 minutes your healthy sandwich is ready.

Don’t forget to top it off with fresh arugula, a dollop of tangy tartar sauce, and some crunchy sliced pickles – or feel free to get creative with your favorite fixings.

Skillet Salmon Potato Hash

Skillet Salmon Potato Hash

Relishing in the flavors of the weekend, I’m particularly excited about whipping up a skillet salmon potato hash. This rustic dish is an innovative combination of potatoes, bell peppers, spinach, onions, and salmon that’s bursting with freshness. A pinch of your favorite hot sauce adds just the right amount of kick. With its rich assortment of ingredients, this meal makes for a satisfying and wholesome breakfast that’s packed with energy.

In terms of nutritional content, it’s surprisingly low in calories, clocking in at under 200 per serving, making it an excellent option for those watching their diet. Plus, it meets the criteria for Weight Watchers approval.

Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon

Baked Salmon with Garlic and Dijon

Gathering essential ingredients and a simple cooking method are key to preparing a delicious salmon dinner. To create a flavorful marinade, combine Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a bowl. This punchy mixture will not only add taste but also help tenderize the filets. After coating your salmon with this marinade, simply place it on a baking sheet and bake until cooked through.

Baking is not only a healthier alternative to frying, but it’s also an easier method that requires minimal cleanup. To round out the meal, consider pairing your salmon with some roasted sheet pan veggies or a fresh green salad for a nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Pan-Fried Salmon

Pan-Fried Salmon

Preparing pan-fried salmon is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients but yields maximum flavor. To start, heat enough olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat to coat the bottom. Next, carefully place the salmon filets into the pan with their skin side down. After a few minutes, use a spatula to gently flip them over. While cooking, consider adding aromatics such as minced garlic and sprigs of thyme for added depth of flavor.

Alternatively, keep it simple with just salt and pepper. Regardless of your chosen seasoning, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the salmon. This finishing touch will elevate the dish and make it ready to be served.

Easy Honey Garlic Salmon

Easy Honey Garlic Salmon

Lightly seasoned with just a few pantry staples, this honey garlic salmon is a quick and easy meal solution. The sauce itself requires only five ingredients, which makes preparation a breeze – it can be thrown together in as little as 20 minutes. To start, give the salmon a brief pan-fry in browned butter before placing it under the broiler. This will allow the sweet, umami, and garlicky flavors of the sauce to caramelize into a rich, golden layer.

As for accompaniments, this dish is beautifully paired with simple white rice, which provides a subtle contrast to the bold flavors of the salmon.

Super-Simple Salmon Tacos with Juicy Citrus Salsa

Super-Simple Salmon Tacos with Juicy Citrus Salsa

Knowing I have a multitude of delicious and nutritious salmon recipes at my disposal, it’s no easy task to narrow down the list to just one favorite. However, if I had to pick just one, this recipe for chili-rubbed salmon fish tacos would likely take top honors. The vibrant combination of juicy chunks of salmon smothered in a zesty orange avocado salsa and wrapped in a crispy corn tortilla is nothing short of perfection.

Not only do these tacos tantalize the taste buds with their bold flavors, but they also cater to those looking for healthier options, being both fresh and gluten-free.

Baked Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze

Baked Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze

Making a mouthwatering salmon dish has never been easier! Mixing the sweet and spicy glaze is a breeze, and coating the salmon takes mere minutes. Whether you’re serving a crowd or keeping things intimate with a smaller gathering, this recipe has got you covered. The best part? It’s incredibly straightforward – just mix, coat, and bake for a tantalizing salmon filet that’s sure to impress.

Lemon Butter Salmon with Rice Pilaf

Lemon Butter Salmon with Rice Pilaf

Flavoured with a zesty twist and infused with fresh herbs, this salmon recipe is one of the best options for a light and simple dinner that won’t weigh heavily on your conscience. Between the vibrant veggie pilaf and the tangy lemon butter sauce served atop the succulent salmon, it’s an incredibly satiating dish that will leave you feeling perfectly full without the need to overindulge.

At just 580 calories per serving, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between taste and nutrition, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising on your diet. Although, if you do want seconds, nobody will blame you for giving in to the allure of this mouth-watering dish!

Sesame Ginger Salmon

Sesame Ginger Salmon

You’ll be spoiled by the incredible flavors in this sesame ginger salmon recipe, making takeout seem like a distant memory. With its vibrant marinade and sweet honey ginger glaze, every bite is a masterclass in umami flavor. Even better, it’s incredibly easy to prepare – just serve it with your favorite sides and get ready for a taste sensation that’ll leave you wondering why you ever bothered with takeout in the first place.

Poach Salmon

Poach Salmon

When cooking salmon, consider skipping the oil and opting for a lighter approach by poaching it in white wine instead. White wine not only adds a touch of richness to the dish but also provides several health benefits due to its high antioxidant and vitamin B content. Additionally, using white wine allows the natural flavors of the salmon to shine through, creating a more complex taste experience. Alternatively, you can substitute it with water or veggie broth if that’s your preference.

Regardless of the choice, one thing remains constant: salmon is an excellent source of heart-healthy fats.

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Crusted Salmon

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Crusted Salmon

Zest up your meal game by giving your salmon a Mediterranean twist for a heart-healthy delight. Not only does it look visually stunning, but it tastes amazing too! The bold red pesto crust is a delicious blend of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and crunchy cashews. This simple yet flavorful combination pairs fantastically with a flaky salmon filet, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Easy Chopped Salmon Salad

Easy Chopped Salmon Salad

Zest up your mealtime routine with this incredible chopped salad recipe! With an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite. This mouth-watering mix features a generous helping of fresh produce, including crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocados, and sweet red onions. And don’t even get us started on the protein-packed salmon – it’s a game-changer! If you’ve got leftover salmon just waiting to be used up, this recipe is the perfect solution.

Plus, with its easy meal prep capabilities, you can enjoy this delicious dish for up to 5 days straight. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner option, this chopped salad is sure to hit the spot.

Lemon Pepper Salmon

Lemon Pepper Salmon

Generally speaking, most of us could benefit from incorporating more light, healthy, and simple recipes into our daily lives. Adding one that also reduces the amount of time spent on washing dishes is an added bonus. Take salmon filets lightly seasoned with herbs and spices, place sliced lemons on top, wrap them in foil, then bake in a preheated oven. This straightforward process requires no more than 30 minutes to complete, allowing you ample time to prepare your sides while the fish cooks.

For simplicity’s sake, I recommend pairing this dish with a fresh garden salad and plain Instant Pot rice for a well-rounded meal.

Salmon Greek Salad with Lemon Basil Dressing

Salmon Greek Salad with Lemon Basil Dressing

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy way to boost your daily intake of essential nutrients, this healthy salmon salad is the perfect solution. It’s a delicious and well-rounded dish that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary preferences or restrictions.

A bed of crisp Romaine lettuce serves as the base for this flavorful salad, topped with an assortment of nutritious ingredients including cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and a generous portion of grilled salmon. The crowning glory is a drizzle of fresh homemade lemon basil dressing, which adds a bright and refreshing touch to each bite.

This delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it the perfect recipe for anyone looking to treat themselves to a healthier meal option.

Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Grilled Salmon Kale Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette

Grilled Salmon Kale Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette

Keen on trying something new? If you’re tired of salads that leave you feeling hungry soon after, then we’ve got just the thing for you. A big meaty salmon filet takes center stage in this dish, while a generous helping of kale is sprinkled with a mix of crunchy pecans and crumbly parmesan cheese, all tossed together with some crispy croutons and dressed to perfection with a honey lemon vinaigrette.

This well-balanced and wholesome salmon salad is not only delicious but also packed with brain-boosting nutrients that will keep you going until your next meal.

Coconut Curry Salmon

Coconut Curry Salmon

Cooking up a storm in your kitchen can be a far superior experience than ordering takeout, and I’m living proof with this mouth-watering seafood curry recipe. The combination of succulent salmon with its sweet and salty rub is truly divine. The flavors of the rich rub are perfectly amplified by the dish’s accompaniments, including a side of creamy coconut sauce that’s simply irresistible. Trust me when I say you won’t be disappointed; give this recipe a try and taste the difference for yourself.

Honey Garlic Salmon

Honey Garlic Salmon

Always approaching cooking with caution is essential when preparing glazed salmon, as a burnt mess can be frustratingly easy to create. So if you’re like me, constantly on the lookout for foolproof recipes, then this guide is exactly what you need. It walks you through the process of perfectly cooking salmon and elevating it with a sticky sweet and garlicky sauce that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Leave a Comment