20 Flavorful Steaming Salmon Recipes Perfect for Weeknights

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March 31, 2025

When it comes to weeknight dinners, we’re always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious solutions. And let’s be real – salmon is a great choice! Not only is it packed with nutrients like omega-3s and protein, but it’s also incredibly versatile when it comes to flavors. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering steaming salmon recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.

From classic combinations like lemon garlic and dill mustard, to international-inspired dishes like Thai coconut milk and Mediterranean olives and tomatoes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.

In the following pages, we’ll explore the world of steaming salmon and provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to create a delicious meal that’s ready in no time. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover why steamed salmon is the perfect solution for your weeknight dinner woes!

Lemon Garlic Steamed Salmon with Herbs

Lemon Garlic Steamed Salmon with Herbs
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and healthy salmon recipe, infused with the zesty tang of lemon and the savory aroma of garlic. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the salmon.
4. Add parsley and dill on top of the salmon.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Soy Ginger Steamed Salmon with Scallions

Soy Ginger Steamed Salmon with Scallions
This Asian-inspired recipe elevates the simplicity of steaming salmon to new heights by infusing it with the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and scallions. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket.
4. Brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Add chopped scallions on top of the salmon.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Miso and Sake Glaze

Steamed Salmon with Miso and Sake Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet elegant recipe, where the rich flavors of miso and sake meld together to create a harmonious balance.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, sake, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket. Brush the glaze evenly over each piece of fish.
4. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Thai-Style Coconut Milk Steamed Salmon

Thai-Style Coconut Milk Steamed Salmon
This Thai-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all steamed to perfection. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket.
4. Pour the coconut milk mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Dill and Mustard Sauce

Steamed Salmon with Dill and Mustard Sauce
A flavorful and healthy salmon dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the brightness of dill and the tanginess of mustard.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place salmon in the steamer basket and steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, chopped dill, and whole-grain mustard.
5. Serve salmon with the dill-mustard sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Citrus Steamed Salmon with Fennel and Orange

Citrus Steamed Salmon with Fennel and Orange
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing citrus-infused salmon dish, perfectly paired with crunchy fennel and the sweetness of orange. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bulbs of fennel, trimmed
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket, skin side down (if applicable).
4. Add fennel bulbs to the steamer basket, trimming any excess that extends beyond the basket.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and top each salmon fillet with an orange segment.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Black Bean Sauce

Steamed Salmon with Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the savory goodness of black bean sauce, all wrapped up in a quick and easy steaming process.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, combine black beans, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Mix well to make the black bean sauce.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Steam salmon for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with black bean sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Servings: 4

Steamed Salmon with Lemongrass and Chili

Steamed Salmon with Lemongrass and Chili
A flavorful and aromatic steaming method brings out the best of salmon, paired with the zesty warmth of lemongrass and chili. This dish is perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, olive oil, lemongrass, and chili slices.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Brush the soy sauce mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced lemongrass if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Mediterranean Steamed Salmon with Olives and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Steamed Salmon with Olives and Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the richness of salmon with the savory taste of olives and the sweetness of tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the steamer basket in a pot with 2 inches of water.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket.
4. Add sliced olives, diced tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice on top of the salmon.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Honey and Sesame Drizzle

Steamed Salmon with Honey and Sesame Drizzle
This sweet and savory recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the richness of honey and sesame oil, creating a dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place salmon in the steamer basket, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
6. Drizzle the honey-sesame glaze over the cooked salmon.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with White Wine and Shallots

Steamed Salmon with White Wine and Shallots
Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the flavors of white wine, shallots, and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small saucepan, combine white wine, butter, and sliced shallots. Cook over medium heat until the shallots are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the thyme sprigs on top of each fillet.
5. Steam the salmon for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, spooning some of the shallot-wine sauce over the top.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Turmeric and Coconut

Steamed Salmon with Turmeric and Coconut
This recipe combines the flavors of turmeric, coconut, and salmon to create a deliciously healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal. The turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor while the coconut milk provides a rich and creamy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the steamer basket with water boiling in a pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together turmeric, shredded coconut, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a heatproof plate or tray.
4. Sprinkle the turmeric-coconut mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Steam the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with a drizzle of coconut milk and garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Bok Choy and Shiitake Mushrooms

Steamed Salmon with Bok Choy and Shiitake Mushrooms
A delicate balance of flavors and textures, this recipe pairs the rich flavor of salmon with the subtle sweetness of bok choy and the earthy umami of shiitake mushrooms.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 8-10 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place a piece of foil on top of each fillet and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Arrange the bok choy leaves around the salmon, followed by the shiitake mushroom slices.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Cilantro Lime Butter

Steamed Salmon with Cilantro Lime Butter
Experience the perfect balance of fresh and zesty flavors with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender steamed salmon with a vibrant cilantro lime butter.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place salmon in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest.
5. Serve salmon with a pat of the cilantro lime butter on top.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Ginger and Scallion Oil

Steamed Salmon with Ginger and Scallion Oil
This Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and healthy way to prepare salmon. The combination of ginger, scallions, and soy sauce creates a savory and aromatic sauce that complements the tender fish.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin coins
– 1/4 cup scallion oil (see below for recipe)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Scallion Oil Recipe:

– 1/2 cup grapeseed oil
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
3. Add the sliced ginger on top of the salmon.
4. Steam the salmon for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix the scallion oil ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Remove the salmon from the steamer and brush with soy sauce mixture (1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp water).
7. Drizzle the scallion oil over the salmon and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Basil and Cherry Tomatoes

Steamed Salmon with Basil and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of omega-rich salmon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a quick and healthy dinner. The steaming process helps retain the delicate texture and nutrients of the fish.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine basil leaves and cherry tomatoes.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Add the olive oil to the fish, then top each fillet with the basil-tomato mixture.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Teriyaki Glaze and Pineapple

Steamed Salmon with Teriyaki Glaze and Pineapple
Elevate your salmon dish with this sweet and savory combination, featuring a sticky teriyaki glaze and juicy pineapple. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 pineapple ring (about 1 inch thick)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving space between each piece.
4. Steam the salmon for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over the salmon.
6. Remove the salmon from the heat and top each piece with a pineapple ring.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Tarragon and Lemon Zest

Steamed Salmon with Tarragon and Lemon Zest
This recipe showcases the simplicity of steaming salmon, elevating it to a flavorful dish with the brightness of tarragon and the zest of lemon.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried tarragon leaves
– 2 lemons, zested
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket in a large pot filled with water.
2. Rinse salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place salmon in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
4. Dot the top of each fillet with butter and sprinkle with tarragon leaves and lemon zest.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Steamed Salmon with Spicy Mango Salsa

Steamed Salmon with Spicy Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the sweet heat of mango salsa.

Ingredients:

For the Steamed Salmon:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spicy Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with water.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place in steamer basket.
3. Steam salmon for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve steamed salmon with Spicy Mango Salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (salmon), 5 minutes (salsa preparation)

Steamed Salmon with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Steamed Salmon with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the bright taste of pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes, all in a quick and easy steaming process. Perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions:

1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a bowl, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to form pesto sauce.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add cherry tomatoes to the steamer basket.
5. Serve salmon with pesto sauce spooned over top and cherry tomatoes on the side.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Looking for quick and delicious salmon recipes perfect for weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 flavorful steaming salmon recipes that are sure to impress. From classic combinations like lemon garlic and dill mustard, to international inspirations such as Thai coconut milk and Mediterranean olives and tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these salmon recipes are sure to become new favorites.

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