18 Delicious Salmon Recipes for Every Occasion

Salmon is a versatile and nutritious fish that can be prepared in countless delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a healthy yet flavorful dish, these 18 Delicious Salmon Recipes for Every Occasion will inspire your next meal. From the rich and savory Garlic Butter Baked Salmon to the light and refreshing Salmon and Quinoa Salad, there’s something here for every palate. Impress your guests with elegant dishes like Pesto Crusted Salmon or keep it cozy with a comforting bowl of Salmon Chowder Soup. No matter the occasion, these recipes ensure that salmon remains the star of your table. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering creations!

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Very few dishes can match the simplicity and elegance of a perfectly baked salmon, especially when it’s infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. This recipe is designed to guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Butter – 4 tbsp
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
• Lemon – 1, sliced
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Avoid browning the garlic to keep its flavor mild.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin-side down.
4. Brush each fillet generously with the garlic butter mixture, then season with salt and black pepper. Tip: Even seasoning ensures every bite is flavorful.
5. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Tip: Check at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Zesty and buttery, this garlic butter baked salmon offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfectly complemented by the subtle tang of lemon. Serve it over a bed of quinoa or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Honey Glazed Salmon with Soy Sauce

Here’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the sweet and savory notes of honey and soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Soy sauce – ¼ cup
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush each fillet generously with the honey-soy mixture, reserving some for later.
4. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. For a caramelized top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
5. While the salmon is baking, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the reserved honey-soy mixture and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Once the salmon is done, drizzle the thickened glaze over the fillets before serving.

Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory with every bite of this honey glazed salmon. The glaze adds a glossy finish and a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tender, flaky fish. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Creamy Dill Salmon Pasta

Just when you thought weeknight dinners couldn’t get any easier, this Creamy Dill Salmon Pasta comes along to prove you wrong. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of dill, all tossed in a creamy pasta that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 2 (6 oz each)
• Pasta – 8 oz
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Fresh dill – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet skin-side down. Cook for 4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through. Tip: The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
3. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped dill and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Flake the cooked salmon into large pieces and gently fold into the pasta.

Best enjoyed immediately, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the creamy pasta and the tender, flaky salmon. For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a sprinkle of fresh dill on top and a side of steamed asparagus.

Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon

Alright, let’s dive into making a delicious Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon that’s perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner. This recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of maple syrup and mustard to create a glaze that beautifully complements the rich, flaky salmon.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Maple syrup – ¼ cup
• Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard until smooth to create the glaze. Tip: For a smoother glaze, warm the maple syrup slightly before mixing.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
4. Generously brush the top of each salmon fillet with the maple mustard glaze, ensuring an even coating. Tip: Reserve a small amount of glaze for serving if desired.
5. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Tip: For a more caramelized top, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.

The Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon comes out with a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavor, with a slightly crispy top and tender, flaky interior. Serve it over a bed of quinoa or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon

Venturing into the world of Cajun cuisine can be as thrilling as it is flavorful, especially when it comes to mastering the art of blackening. Today, we’re focusing on a dish that’s both simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors: Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon. Perfect for beginners, this recipe will guide you through each step to achieve that perfectly charred, spicy exterior with a tender, flaky interior.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 2 (6 oz each)
• Cajun seasoning – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until it’s smoking hot. This ensures a perfect blackened crust.
2. While the skillet heats, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
3. Rub each salmon fillet evenly with 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are coated for maximum flavor.
4. Drizzle the olive oil into the hot skillet, then immediately add the salmon fillets. Cook for 2 minutes without moving to allow a crust to form.
5. Carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula. Cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily when done.
6. Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist bite.

Mouthwatering and aromatic, this Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon boasts a crispy, spice-laden crust with a succulent center. Serve it atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a crisp green salad to balance the heat. The contrast of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight.

Salmon Chowder Soup

This comforting salmon chowder soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple to make. Together, we’ll walk through each step to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet – 1 lb
• Potatoes – 2 cups, diced
• Onion – 1, chopped
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 4 cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. While the potatoes cook, cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces.
6. Once the potatoes are tender, add the salmon pieces to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes.
7. Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, and heat through for another 2 minutes. Do not boil.
8. Remove from heat and let the chowder sit for 5 minutes before serving.

A creamy and rich salmon chowder that’s both comforting and elegant. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh dill or alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Salmon and Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls

Kickstart your sushi-making journey with these delightful Salmon and Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls, a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors wrapped in nori and rice. This recipe is designed for beginners, guiding you through each step to ensure success.

Ingredients

• Sushi rice – 2 cups
• Water – 2 cups
• Rice vinegar – 2 tbsp
• Sugar – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Nori sheets – 4
• Smoked salmon – 8 oz
• Cream cheese – 4 oz
• Cucumber – 1, julienned

Instructions

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker or pot. Cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions or bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 20 minutes on low heat.
3. While the rice cooks, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Tip: Warming the mixture slightly helps dissolve the sugar faster.
4. Spread the cooked rice on a flat tray and gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Let it cool to room temperature. Tip: Fanning the rice speeds up the cooling process.
5. Place a nori sheet on a bamboo mat, spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Arrange slices of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber strips horizontally across the rice.
7. Roll the sushi tightly using the bamboo mat, pressing gently as you go. Tip: Wetting the nori’s border helps seal the roll.
8. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 8 pieces. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner slices.

Gorgeously presented, these sushi rolls offer a creamy texture from the cheese, a smoky flavor from the salmon, and a refreshing crunch from the cucumber. Serve them with soy sauce and wasabi for an authentic touch or get creative with a drizzle of spicy mayo.

Salmon and Sweet Potato Cakes

Whipping up a batch of Salmon and Sweet Potato Cakes is easier than you think, and today, we’re breaking it down step by step to ensure your success in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet – 1 lb
• Sweet potato – 1 large
• Egg – 1
• Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the sweet potato, cut it into chunks, and boil in salted water for 15 minutes until tender.
3. While the sweet potato cooks, season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper, then bake on the prepared sheet for 12 minutes.
4. Once cooked, flake the salmon into a large bowl, ensuring no bones remain.
5. Drain the sweet potato, mash it smoothly, and add it to the salmon.
6. Beat the egg lightly and mix it into the salmon and sweet potato along with the breadcrumbs.
7. Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, pressing firmly to hold their shape.
8. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
9. Transfer the cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Here’s the best part: these cakes boast a crispy exterior with a moist, flavorful interior, perfect for serving atop a fresh salad or alongside a creamy dill sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Salmon with Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

This salmon with garlic parmesan cream sauce is a dish that combines simplicity with elegance, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The creamy, garlicky sauce complements the rich flavor of the salmon beautifully, making it a surefire hit.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
6. Pour the heavy cream into the saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is fully melted.
8. Once the salmon is done, spoon the garlic parmesan cream sauce over the fillets before serving.

Buttery and rich, the salmon pairs wonderfully with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce, offering a luxurious texture and depth of flavor. Serve it over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Discover 18 mouthwatering salmon recipes perfect for any occasion in this curated collection. From the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Salmon to the zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Try quick meals like Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast or hearty dishes like Coconut Curry Salmon. Whether you’re craving Teriyaki Salmon with Rice or indulgent Salmon and Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls, these recipes offer variety and deliciousness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings!