When it comes to cooking salmon, few species can rival the majesty and taste of the mighty King Salmon. With its rich, buttery flesh and firm texture, this Pacific Northwest native is a chef’s dream come true. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for your next special occasion, we’ve got you covered with these 20 succulent King Salmon recipes. From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to innovative global twists and bold flavor combinations, our collection has something for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the many faces of King Salmon. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty dish or a rich and indulgent treat, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure…
Grilled King Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this simple yet impressive recipe for Grilled King Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place the lemon butter mixture on top of each salmon fillet during the last minute of grilling.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Pan-Seared King Salmon with Garlic Herb Crust
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic pan-seared king salmon recipe, topped with a savory garlic herb crust. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dredge each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Glazed King Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Roasted vegetables:
+ 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
+ 2 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
+ 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Roast vegetables in a separate baking dish with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve glazed salmon with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
King Salmon Poke Bowl with Avocado and Mango
A refreshing and flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dish that combines the richness of king salmon with the creaminess of avocado and the sweetness of mango. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade king salmon, cut into small cubes
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine salmon cubes, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Gently mix until the salmon is coated.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, top the salmon with diced avocado and mango.
4. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top.
5. Serve the poke bowl over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: None (marinating time is not included in cooking time)
Smoked King Salmon with Dill and Cream Cheese
This elegant appetizer combines the rich flavor of smoked king salmon with the bright, citrusy taste of fresh dill and the creamy richness of cream cheese. Perfect for special occasions or a simple yet impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked king salmon, flaked
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, cream cheese, and chopped dill until well combined.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None required – simply prepare and serve!
King Salmon Tacos with Lime Crema and Slaw
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this refreshing take on traditional tacos, featuring succulent king salmon, tangy lime crema, and crunchy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup coleslaw mix
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
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. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled salmon on a tortilla, topping with lime crema, coleslaw mix, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baked King Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze
This sweet and tangy glaze elevates the rich flavor of king salmon to new heights, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon juice
– 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 the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
King Salmon Ceviche with Citrus and Cilantro
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the rich flavor of king salmon with the brightness of citrus and the freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade king salmon, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the king salmon pieces, lime juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice.
2. Stir gently to distribute the citrus juices evenly among the fish pieces.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the citrus juices.
4. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
King Salmon Burgers with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this recipe featuring succulent king salmon patties and a creamy, spicy aioli sauce. Perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 king salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Aioli Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix well.
3. Divide salmon fillets into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
4. Coat each patty with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
5. Grill or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve on a bun with Spicy Aioli Sauce (recipe below).
Spicy Aioli Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (grilling time)
King Salmon Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavor of king salmon with sweet corn and crispy bacon, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add butter to the pot and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Cut salmon into bite-sized pieces and add to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Whisk together flour and milk, then gradually add to the pot, stirring constantly.
6. Simmer chowder for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Salmon Sushi Rolls with Wasabi Mayo
This recipe combines the rich flavor of king salmon with the spicy kick of wasabi mayonnaise, wrapped in a delicate sushi roll. Perfect for a special occasion or a treat for yourself.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked king salmon, diced
– 1/2 cup short-grain rice (Japanese-style)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 sheet nori seaweed
– Wasabi mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for rolling.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place the diced king salmon in the center of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with wasabi mayonnaise for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
King Salmon Salad with Arugula and Balsamic Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of king salmon with the peppery taste of arugula, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz king salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Flake the cooked king salmon into the bowl and toss gently to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
King Salmon Kebabs with Teriyaki Glaze
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and impressive King Salmon Kebab recipe, topped with a sweet and savory Teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 King salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread salmon pieces onto skewers, leaving a 1-inch gap between each piece.
4. Brush the Teriyaki glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
King Salmon en Papillote with Herbs and White Wine
This recipe combines the rich flavor of king salmon with the subtle aroma of herbs and a hint of white wine, all wrapped up in a flavorful papillote package.
Ingredients:
– 4 King Salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, parsley, and garlic.
4. Place a salmon fillet on each of four pieces of parchment paper.
5. Divide the herb mixture evenly among the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle white wine over the herbs.
7. Top with lemon slices.
8. Fold parchment paper to create a packet, sealing the ingredients inside.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
King Salmon Risotto with Asparagus and Parmesan
Elevate your mealtime with this rich and creamy King Salmon Risotto, paired with tender asparagus and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound King Salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, until absorbed.
6. Stir in flaked King Salmon, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
King Salmon Gravlax with Dill and Mustard Sauce
A Scandinavian-inspired appetizer or light meal, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of king salmon with the tanginess of mustard and the freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) king salmon fillet
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp (30ml) honey
– 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar
– 2 tbsp (30g) mustard seeds
– 2 tbsp (15g) chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together vinegar, honey, brown sugar, and mustard seeds.
4. Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Pour the marinade mixture evenly over the salmon.
6. Top with chopped dill and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
8. Serve chilled, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
King Salmon Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
Experience the harmonious balance of flavors in this quick and easy King Salmon Stir-Fry, infused with the warmth of ginger and the richness of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the salmon; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over your choice of rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
King Salmon Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce
This rich and flavorful pasta dish is a perfect combination of tender king salmon, creamy garlic sauce, and al dente pasta. A great option for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz king salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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 cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in cooked king salmon, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy salmon mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
King Salmon Tartare with Avocado and Crispy Shallots
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent and refreshing king salmon tartare, paired with creamy avocado and crunchy shallots. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade king salmon fillet
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crispy shallots (see note)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the salmon into small pieces and place in a bowl.
2. Add lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until the fish is well coated.
3. Stir in diced avocado.
4. Just before serving, top with crispy shallots and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make crispy shallots, thinly slice 1/2 cup of shallots and separate into individual rings. Dredge the shallot rings in flour, shaking off excess, then fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and use as garnish.
King Salmon Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping King Salmon Wellington, paired with a rich and earthy mushroom duxelles. This impressive dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its flaky crust and tender salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 King salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see below for recipe)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mushroom Duxelles Recipe:
– 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle.
4. Place a salmon fillet in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Spoon mushroom duxelles over the salmon.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg.
7. Fold pastry over salmon and press edges to seal.
8. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these 20 mouth-watering King Salmon recipes! From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to creative takes like poke bowls, tacos, and sushi rolls, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to elevate your salmon game with zesty lemon butter sauce, savory garlic herb crust, and sweet maple glaze, among many other flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for new recipe ideas, this collection is sure to inspire your next culinary endeavor!