Are you looking for a culinary thrill? Do you want to elevate your dinner game with unique and flavorful dishes that impress even the most discerning palates? Look no further than the majestic salmon, a versatile fish that lends itself beautifully to a wide range of cuisines and cooking methods. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 20 mouth-watering salmon recipes that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
From sweet and sticky maple glazed salmon with a crunchy pecan crust to savory and spicy blackened salmon with mango salsa, these innovative recipes showcase the fish’s incredible versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for something Asian-inspired, Mediterranean-styled, or simply indulgent, there’s a salmon dish here to satisfy your cravings. So sit back, get ready to drool, and discover the ultimate guide to gourmet salmon cooking!
Maple Glazed Salmon with Pecan Crust
Sweet and savory, this dish combines the richness of salmon with the crunch of pecans and the warmth of maple syrup. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans 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
Salmon Sushi Tacos with Avocado Crema
Experience the fusion of Japanese-inspired sushi and Mexican flavors with these innovative Salmon Sushi Tacos featuring a creamy Avocado Crema. A unique twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the freshness of salmon with the richness of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and pickled ginger for garnish
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, combine flaked salmon, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Heat until warm.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spreading cooked sushi rice onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of warmed salmon mixture.
5. Top with Avocado Crema, sliced green onions, cilantro, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Poached Salmon
This creamy coconut curry poached salmon recipe is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional poaching methods. The combination of tender salmon, rich coconut milk, and warm Indian spices creates a dish that’s both exotic and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the salmon fillets to the bowl and make sure they’re fully coated with the curry mixture.
4. Transfer the salmon to a baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Stuffed Crepes
Elevate your brunch game with this elegant and flavorful recipe, combining the richness of smoked salmon with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 package crepe mix (or homemade batter)
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook crepes according to package instructions or your own recipe.
2. In a small bowl, mix together flaked smoked salmon, softened butter, and chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the salmon-dill mixture onto the center of each crepe.
4. Fold the crepe into a triangle or roll it up, making sure the filling is secure.
5. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: approximately 20 minutes (including crepe cooking time)
Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of mango, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
5. Serve blackened salmon with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon en Papillote with Lemon and Herbs
Salmon en Papillote with Lemon and Herbs is a classic French dish that’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve. This method of cooking allows the salmon to retain its moisture while absorbing the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil with a non-stick cooking spray.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of the paper, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Top each fillet with a lemon slice, some chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the fish.
6. Fold the paper or foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and tangy glaze, featuring the rich flavors of pomegranate molasses. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glaze and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Asparagus Risotto
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 cups mixed asparagus spears, trimmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook asparagus in boiling water until tender; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve salmon and asparagus on top of risotto.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Pineapple Skewers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish, featuring succulent salmon, juicy pineapple, and a sticky teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a salmon fillet, pineapple chunk, and a few green onions onto each skewer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon and pineapple on each skewer.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Wellington with Spinach and Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this show-stopping Salmon Wellington, packed with flavorful spinach and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place a salmon fillet on a flat surface. Spoon the mushroom-spinach mixture over the salmon, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a large rectangle. Place the salmon on one half of the pastry, brush the edges with beaten egg. Fold the other half of the pastry over the salmon, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush the top of the Wellington with softened butter and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon Chowder with Crispy Bacon
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender salmon, and creamy potatoes. A comforting bowl of goodness to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 cups of fish stock or water
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add diced onion to the same pot and sauté until translucent.
3. Add canned tomatoes, fish stock or water, potatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in cooked salmon and crispy bacon. Add heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wasabi Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the bold flavors of wasabi and honey. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp wasabi paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, wasabi paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the salmon, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of salmon with the creaminess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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, goat cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the salmon mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salmon Burgers with Sriracha Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic salmon patty, paired with a spicy kick from sriracha aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or frozen salmon fillet, thawed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sriracha aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well with a fork until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
4. Grill salmon burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Sriracha Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Assembly:
1. Assemble burgers by spreading a layer of Sriracha aioli on the bottom bun, followed by a grilled salmon patty and finishing with the top bun.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Salmon Tartare with Avocado and Lime
This refreshing appetizer combines the richness of salmon with the creaminess of avocado and a squeeze of lime, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade salmon, finely chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped salmon, diced avocado, lime juice, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Salmon and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all in a crispy hash. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, pan-fry salmon fillets in remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Serve salmon with roasted sweet potato hash and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon Poke Bowl with Pickled Radish
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing and healthy Salmon Poke Bowl recipe, topped with tangy pickled radish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade salmon, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup pickled radish (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and toasted seaweed for garnish
Pickled Radish Recipe:
– 1 large radish, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add the salmon cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the poke bowls by placing cooked sushi rice on the bottom, followed by marinated salmon, diced cucumber, and pickled radish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinade time)
Salmon and Brie Stuffed Phyllo Cups
Impress your guests with these elegant and flavorful appetizers, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 6 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), cooked and flaked
– 1/2 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing phyllo
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked salmon, brie cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush one sheet of phyllo with olive oil, then place a spoonful of the salmon mixture in the center.
5. Fold the phyllo into a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place the cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon with Blood Orange Beurre Blanc
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant and flavorful salmon dish, where the sweetness of blood oranges complements the richness of beurre blanc. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 blood oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 cups heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add blood orange segments and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white wine vinegar and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve salmon topped with blood orange beurre blanc and garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled salmon, nutty quinoa, and fresh zucchini for a healthy and satisfying summer meal. The quinoa and salmon mixture is then stuffed inside hollowed-out zucchinis, creating a delightful boat-shaped snack or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz grilled salmon fillet, flaked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, salmon, olive oil, onion, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
7. Garnish with parsley or dill before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your dinner game with these 20 unique and flavorful salmon recipes. From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, there’s something for every taste bud. Try maple glazed salmon with pecan crust, or go international with salmon sushi tacos and avocado crema. For a comforting twist, opt for coconut curry poached salmon or creamy risotto with asparagus. Or, get adventurous with smoked salmon and dill stuffed crepes or teriyaki salmon pineapple skewers. Whatever your style, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
