Are you looking to incorporate more protein-packed meals into your diet while still satisfying your taste buds? Look no further than salmon! Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, this fish is a great addition to any weight loss meal plan. In fact, studies have shown that eating fatty fish like salmon can actually help reduce inflammation and promote weight loss.
But don’t worry if you’re tired of the same old grilled or baked salmon recipe – we’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find 20 delicious and healthy salmon recipes that will keep your taste buds engaged and your diet on track. From flavorful and spicy dishes to light and refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderness of salmon for a flavorful and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle lemon juice and minced garlic evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Arrange asparagus spears alongside the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and healthy combination of grilled salmon and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe avocados
– 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill 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. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve grilled salmon with avocado salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Salmon with Dill and Lemon
Add a burst of freshness to your meal with this easy-to-make air fryer salmon recipe, infused with the bright flavors of dill and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
5. Brush the top of each fillet with the dill-lemon mixture.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all topped with a tangy slaw made from crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz wild-caught salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillet.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the Buddha bowl by placing quinoa at the base, followed by the mixed greens, roasted salmon, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
7. Drizzle with the soy-honey dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Glazed Salmon
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional glazed salmon, this recipe is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the Sriracha glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender salmon, nutritious spinach, and creamy sweet potatoes. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped herbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add flaked salmon and cook until heated through.
4. In a separate pan, wilt spinach leaves with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them open and top each one with the salmon mixture, wilted spinach, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Salmon and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes!
Low-Carb Salmon Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the low-carb goodness of zucchini noodles, all in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
6. Serve the baked salmon on top of the zucchini noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4
Teriyaki Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Teriyaki salmon paired with steamed broccoli for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil over the salmon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Meanwhile, steam broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
10. Serve salmon with steamed broccoli.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salmon and Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of grilled salmon with the earthy taste of kale, all tied together with a bright and citrusy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 wild-caught salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bunches curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine kale leaves, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Massage the mixture into the kale for about 5 minutes, until it’s tender and slightly wilted.
4. Slice grilled salmon into strips. Add to the bowl with the kale mixture.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Combine the brightness of cherry tomatoes with the richness of pesto and pan-seared salmon for a quick and impressive meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the cherry tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, place the salmon fillets in a separate pan over medium-high heat.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Stir pesto into the pan juices and spoon over the salmon.
8. Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes and garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the omega-rich goodness of salmon with the creamy texture of cauliflower “rice.” Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add salmon pieces to the skillet; cook 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Stir in cauliflower “rice” and soy sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes, until cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Olives and Feta
Elevate your salmon dish with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean! This recipe combines the richness of feta cheese, the brininess of Kalamata olives, and the brightness of lemon zest to create a mouthwatering baked salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 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. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then top each fillet with a few slices of olives, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Cucumber Sushi Rolls
This refreshing recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the crunch of cucumber, all wrapped up in a delightful sushi roll. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice (such as sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1/4 cup water and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar.
2. Cut the cucumber into thin strips.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few pieces of flaked salmon and some cucumber strips in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat.
6. Slice into individual pieces. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes preparation time)
Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast
Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, smoky, and utterly delicious toast recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 slice of whole grain bread (e.g. baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 oz smoked salmon, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toast the bread for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
4. Arrange the sliced smoked salmon on top of the avocado.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Salmon and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring the rich taste of salmon, tender lentils, and aromatic spices. With its nutritious ingredients and ease of preparation, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and lentils; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the water and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, add the salmon fillet, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful combination of grilled salmon, sweet mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper; grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions. Mix in coconut milk, ginger, and butter.
5. Serve grilled salmon with mango salsa spooned over the top, accompanied by coconut rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Egg White Scramble
This protein-packed breakfast scramble combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the creamy texture of egg whites, perfect for a quick and nutritious morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked salmon (canned or fresh)
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped spinach, dill, or chives for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg whites into a bowl and whisk until frothy.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg whites and cook until they start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the cooked salmon to one half of the scrambled eggs.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the eggs over the salmon.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are fully set.
7. Serve hot and add optional garnishes if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packets
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy meal with this easy-to-make recipe. Salmon and asparagus are a match made in heaven, and when cooked together in foil packets, they’re simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (12 inches square)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of foil into squares (12 inches each).
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.
4. Top with asparagus, olive oil, and garlic.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients, making sure to seal the packet tightly.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Chickpea Salad
A refreshing summer salad featuring grilled salmon, crunchy chickpeas, and tangy lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, parsley, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
5. Flake grilled salmon into the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Balsamic Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of pan-seared salmon with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Roast Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While Brussels sprouts are roasting, pan-sear salmon fillets over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salmon; serve with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and healthy culinary journey with these 20 delicious salmon recipes for weight loss! From baked lemon garlic salmon with asparagus to smoked salmon and avocado toast, and from quinoa Buddha bowls to spicy Sriracha glazed salmon, this collection offers a wide range of mouth-watering options. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds while supporting your weight loss goals.