20 Delicious Kid Friendly Salmon Recipes Simple

recipesforlife

April 3, 2025

Are you looking for a way to get your kids to eat more fish? Do you want to add some variety to their diet without sacrificing taste or ease of preparation? Look no further than these 20 delicious and simple salmon recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like sushi rolls, we’ve got a recipe for every kid’s taste buds. And the best part? These recipes are all kid-friendly and easy to make, so you can get your little ones involved in the kitchen too! In this article, we’ll dive into some of our favorite salmon recipes that are sure to become family favorites. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

Honey Glazed Salmon Bites

Honey Glazed Salmon Bites
Sweet and savory, these bite-sized salmon treats are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. With a crispy honey glaze and tender salmon, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:

– 12 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil.
4. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
6. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Servings: 12 salmon bites

Cheesy Salmon Quesadillas

Cheesy Salmon Quesadillas
These quesadillas combine the rich flavor of salmon with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or salsa for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the salmon, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with cheese.
4. Add the salmon mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and golden.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Salmon and Sweet Potato Patties

Salmon and Sweet Potato Patties
These crispy patties are packed with protein-rich salmon, sweet and tender sweet potatoes, and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine salmon, sweet potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Teriyaki Salmon Skewers

Teriyaki Salmon Skewers
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with these easy-to-make Teriyaki Salmon Skewers! This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or an impressive appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
3. Thread salmon pieces onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the salmon on each skewer.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Salmon Mac and Cheese

Salmon Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of smoky salmon, creating a rich and satisfying comfort food dish. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – creamy pasta and flaky fish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add flaked salmon and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Panko-Crusted Salmon Nuggets

Panko-Crusted Salmon Nuggets
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy Panko-crusted salmon nuggets. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy treat in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into bite-sized nugget pieces
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each salmon piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated salmon nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Salmon and Veggie Foil Packets

Salmon and Veggie Foil Packets
A delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in just 12 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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. Top with sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients to form a packet.
7. Repeat for remaining packets.
8. Bake for 12 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Mini Salmon Burgers

Mini Salmon Burgers
These bite-sized burgers are perfect for a snack or appetizer. With the rich flavor of salmon, they’re sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (mini-sized)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, onion, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small patties, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble burgers by placing a patty on each mini bun.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Salmon and Corn Chowder

Salmon and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavor of salmon with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the potatoes, corn kernels, and salmon fillet. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Salmon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Salmon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Salmon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A Twist on a Classic!

This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the comfort of grilled cheese, creating a unique and delicious sandwich.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread cream cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Top with smoked salmon, chopped dill, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place cheddar cheese on top of the salmon mixture.
6. Place the other bread slices, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Grill for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Salmon and Rice Bowls

Salmon and Rice Bowls
Savor the combination of grilled salmon, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables in this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and pickled ginger for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and garlic; grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and broccoli; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Assemble bowls by placing grilled salmon on top of cooked rice, then adding sautéed vegetables.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and pickled ginger, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Salmon Pizza with Hidden Veggies

Salmon Pizza with Hidden Veggies
This innovative recipe combines the flavors of a traditional pizza with the nutritional benefits of salmon and hidden veggies, making it a perfect option for health-conscious foodies. With its creamy sauce and crispy crust, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pizza dough
– 6 oz cooked salmon fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread pesto sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with flaked salmon, mozzarella cheese, zucchini, and bell peppers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Salmon and Avocado Roll-Ups

Salmon and Avocado Roll-Ups
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the richness of salmon with the creaminess of avocado.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the nori sheet into desired sizes for roll-ups.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of the soy-sesame mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few slices of avocado down the center of the seaweed.
5. Top with flaked salmon, spreading it evenly across the avocado.
6. Roll up the nori and filling tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual portions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)

Salmon Tater Tot Casserole

Salmon Tater Tot Casserole
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the comforting familiarity of tater tots, creating a unique and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 (16 ounce) bag of tater tots
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, paprika, or lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked salmon, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Mix well.
3. Spread half of the tater tots in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the salmon mixture, followed by the remaining tater tots.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top layer of tater tots.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Salmon and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Salmon and Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Experience the refreshing flavors of the sea with this simple recipe for Salmon and Cucumber Sushi Rolls. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack or light meal, these rolls are easy to make and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably sushi rice)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place 1-2 slices of cucumber and 1/4 cup of flaked salmon in the middle of the rice.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or a piece of parchment paper.
5. Slice into individual pieces. Serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Salmon and Broccoli Pasta

Salmon and Broccoli Pasta
This recipe combines the omega-3 rich salmon with steamed broccoli and al dente pasta, creating a nutritious and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or linguine)
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add salmon fillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam broccoli florets in a separate pot until tender.
6. Toss cooked pasta with steamed broccoli, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Slice the cooked salmon into strips and add to the pasta mixture.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Salmon and Cheese Pinwheels

Salmon and Cheese Pinwheels
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful salmon and cheese pinwheels, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying the delicious combination of smoked salmon and melted cheddar in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons of smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the cream cheese evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with smoked salmon and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a pinwheel shape.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Salmon and Pea Risotto

Salmon and Pea Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of salmon with the sweetness of peas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 6 oz salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked salmon, peas, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Salmon and Carrot Fritters

Salmon and Carrot Fritters
These crispy fritters are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional appetizers or snacks. With the combination of salmon, carrots, and herbs, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!

Ingredients:

– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flaked salmon, grated carrots, flour, egg, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and parsley.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
5. Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Salmon and Spinach Wraps

Salmon and Spinach Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a delicious meal with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of salmon, spinach, and whole wheat wraps. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these wraps are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 pound cooked salmon fillet
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 4-6 whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon fillet in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, warm the tortilla wraps by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading a spoonful of spinach on each wrap, followed by a piece of salmon and a sprinkle of feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get your kids to love salmon with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes! From Honey Glazed Salmon Bites to Salmon Mac and Cheese, and from Teriyaki Salmon Skewers to Salmon Pizza with Hidden Veggies, there’s something for every kid. These simple and fun recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat. Try Cheesy Salmon Quesadillas, Panko-Crusted Salmon Nuggets, or Mini Salmon Burgers for a taste adventure your kids will love!

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