When it comes to cooking salmon, one of the best ways to bring out its natural flavor and texture is by marinating it in a delicious mixture of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which recipe to try first. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 mouthwatering salmon marinade recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of palates.
From classic combinations like honey garlic soy to more adventurous pairings like spicy sriracha lime and miso maple, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll dive into each of the 20 recipes, sharing tips and tricks for getting the most out of your marinade.
Honey Garlic Soy Salmon Marinade
Elevate your salmon dish with a sweet and savory marinade that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the depth of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the salmon, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the salmon according to your preferred method: baking, grilling, or pan-searing. Cooking time is approximately 12-15 minutes.
Tips: Adjust the amount of garlic and ginger to your taste preferences. You can also add other aromatics like lemon juice or chopped green onions to the marinade for added flavor.
Lemon Dill Salmon Marinade
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your salmon with this easy-to-make marinade, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dill, and mustard until smooth.
2. Place salmon fillets (6 oz each) in a shallow dish or ziplock bag.
3. Pour marinade over the salmon, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Remove salmon from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
– Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon
A sweet and tangy glaze elevates this simple salmon recipe to new heights. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, and garlic until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Ginger Salmon Marinade
Elevate your salmon game with this easy-to-make marinade that combines the flavors of teriyaki, ginger, and soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Lime Salmon
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this simple yet bold recipe. Pan-seared salmon fillets are infused with the spicy kick of sriracha and the brightness of lime juice, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sriracha sauce and lime juice.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Brush the sriracha-lime mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Balsamic Herb Marinated Salmon
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make Balsamic Herb Marinated Salmon recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Salmon Marinade
Elevate your salmon dishes with this aromatic and flavorful marinade, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, coconut milk, curry powder, honey, ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fish, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the salmon according to your preference (grilled: 4-6 minutes per side; baked: 12-15 minutes).
Cooking Time: 12-20 minutes
Orange Rosemary Glazed Salmon
Orange Rosemary Glazed Salmon Recipe
Elevate your salmon game with this citrusy and herbaceous glaze, featuring the brightness of orange and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, honey, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the glaze by half, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in chopped rosemary and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Soy Ginger Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ginger to create a savory and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salmon in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and honey.
5. Brush the mixture evenly 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
Pineapple Jalapeño Salmon Marinade
Pineapple Jalapeño Salmon Marinade Recipe
A sweet and spicy marinade that adds a tropical twist to grilled salmon, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pineapple juice, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, jalapeño pepper, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove salmon from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Miso Maple Glazed Salmon
Miso Maple Glazed Salmon Recipe
Sweet and savory, this Miso Maple Glazed Salmon recipe combines the rich flavors of miso paste with the sweetness of maple syrup for a delightful twist on traditional glazed salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of fresh herbs to create a flavorful and moist salmon dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in parsley and dill.
5. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Lime Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the smokiness of paprika with the brightness of lime. The result is a dish that’s both savory and tangy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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 smoked paprika, brown sugar, and lime juice.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Sugar Bourbon Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar, the depth of bourbon, and the flaky texture of fresh fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the sweet and savory glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cilantro Lime Salmon Marinade
Elevate your salmon dishes with this vibrant and flavorful marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. This Cilantro Lime Salmon Marinade combines the brightness of lime juice, the freshness of cilantro, and the subtlety of garlic to create a mouthwatering glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Place salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each) in a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the fish, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove salmon from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto and parmesan with the tender texture of salmon, creating a dish that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, then spoon the pesto evenly over each fillet.
5. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai Sweet Chili Salmon
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai cuisine with the richness of salmon, resulting in a sweet and spicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its aromatic and slightly sweet chili sauce, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Thai sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ginger Scallion Soy Salmon
This Asian-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of ginger, scallions, and soy sauce with the richness of salmon for a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together grated ginger, chopped scallions, and soy sauce.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the ginger-soy mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Salmon Recipe
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional salmon recipes, this Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Salmon dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of juicy salmon, rich balsamic glaze, and tart raspberries creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh raspberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together raspberry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey until smooth.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh raspberries and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tequila Lime Cilantro Salmon
Tequila Lime Cilantro Salmon: A Fusion of Flavors
This recipe combines the bold flavors of tequila, lime juice, and cilantro with the richness of salmon for a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup tequila
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the tequila-lime mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salmon game with these 20 mouthwatering marinade recipes! From classic combinations like Honey Garlic Soy and Lemon Dill, to international inspirations like Teriyaki Ginger and Thai Sweet Chili, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon for a sweet and tangy twist, or Spicy Sriracha Lime for a bold and zesty kick. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these flavorful marinades are sure to impress.