Are you tired of serving the same old boring salmon dishes at your gatherings? Look no further! We’ve got 20 flavorful and unique salmon recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From sweet and savory maple glazes to spicy sushi burritos, these dishes will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any special occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, our collection of salmon recipes has something for everyone. With a range of flavors and cuisines represented, from Asian-inspired teriyaki skewers to Mediterranean-style tartare, you’ll never get bored with the same old recipe again.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting 20 unique salmon recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From classic dishes like salmon Wellington and blackened tacos to more adventurous creations like sushi burritos and lentil salads, there’s something for every palate and occasion.
Maple Glazed Salmon with Pecan Crust
Maple Glazed Salmon with Pecan Crust: A Sweet and Savory Combination
This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and pecans to create a sweet and savory glazed salmon. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tsp of salt.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the maple glaze evenly over each fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the glazed salmon.
6. Dot the top of each fillet with butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Sushi Burritos with Spicy Mayo
Take a twist on traditional sushi rolls and burrito-ize them! This recipe combines the freshness of salmon sashimi with the creaminess of spicy mayo, all wrapped up in a crispy seaweed sheet.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled salmon fillet
– 1/4 cup sushi rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Optional: avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger for added flavor
Spicy Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the salmon into thin strips and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and salt.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto it, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange the salmon strips horizontally across the center of the rice.
5. Drizzle spicy mayo over the salmon.
6. Roll up the nori tightly, applying gentle pressure to form a compact burrito.
7. Slice in half and serve with optional avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Blackened Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with the sweetness of mango salsa, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 tacos shells
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
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. Cook salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked salmon on a shell and topping with mango salsa and optional toppings.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Avocado Tartare with Lime Dressing
A refreshing and light take on traditional tartare, this recipe combines the richness of salmon with the creaminess of avocado, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 6 oz fresh salmon fillet, finely chopped
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, salmon, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Salmon with Jasmine Rice
Savor the exotic flavors of Thailand with this vibrant dish, combining succulent salmon fillets with a rich coconut curry sauce and fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add curry paste; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Place salmon fillets on top of the sauce; bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with steamed jasmine rice and spoon some of the coconut curry sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon Wellington with Spinach and Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent yet easy-to-make Salmon Wellington recipe, featuring earthy spinach and savory mushrooms wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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 lightly floured surface. Spoon the mushroom-spinach mixture over the fish, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a large rectangle. Place the salmon fillet in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
5. Fold the pastry over the salmon, pressing edges to seal. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Place Wellingtons on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until puff pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Crusted Salmon with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, featuring pesto-crusted salmon paired with sweet and tangy roasted cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pesto and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Dip each fillet into the pesto-breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast cherry tomatoes in a separate baking dish with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve salmon with roasted cherry tomatoes and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, smoked salmon, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the salmon-cream cheese mixture.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salmon and Asparagus Risotto with Lemon Zest
A vibrant and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of salmon with the sweetness of asparagus and a burst of citrus freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 2 cups arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked salmon, asparagus, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Skewers with Pineapple Chunks
Teriyaki Salmon Skewers with Pineapple Chunks Recipe Summary:
Experience the sweet and savory combination of teriyaki-glazed salmon, paired with juicy pineapple chunks, all wrapped up on skewers for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Thread salmon pieces, pineapple chunks, and a few leaves of fresh mint (optional) onto each skewer.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly onto the salmon and pineapple.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through to desired doneness.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the nutty taste of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (6 oz) of salmon fillet, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together salmon, quinoa, parsley, and feta (if using).
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the salmon-quinoa mixture, dividing evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavors of salmon, sweet corn, and smoky bacon for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or canned salmon, flaked
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside. Leave the drippings.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, and flaked salmon. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy phyllo cups filled with succulent salmon and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Cut phyllo into 12 equal squares.
4. In a bowl, mix together salmon, goat cheese, olive oil, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place a spoonful of the salmon mixture onto the center of each phyllo square.
6. Fold the phyllo into triangles or cups, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with a little bit of water and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until phyllo is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Sweet Potato Hash with Poached Eggs
This recipe combines the flavors of smoky salmon, sweet and earthy sweet potatoes, and creamy poached eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
– 2 eggs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook salmon fillets in the oven at the same temperature for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Crack eggs into the water and poach for 3-5 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
5. To assemble, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with salmon fillets, and serve with poached eggs. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salmon Ceviche with Coconut Milk and Cilantro
This refreshing ceviche combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the creaminess of coconut milk, all tied together with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade salmon, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon pieces, coconut milk, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the fish.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and sliced red onion.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Salmon and Kale Caesar Salad with Crispy Croutons
A fresh twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon and crispy croutons with the earthy goodness of kale. The perfect combination for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 cup crouton mixture (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Crouton Mixture:
– 1/2 baguette, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill 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, massage kale leaves with Caesar dressing until well coated.
4. Add grilled salmon to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle croutons over the top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Brie Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent salmon and brie stuffed mushrooms. Rich, buttery mushroom caps are filled with a flavorful mixture of pan-seared salmon, creamy brie cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/2 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the salmon fillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the mushroom caps by brushing with olive oil and seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with a spoonful of pan-seared salmon, followed by a dollop of brie cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Salmon and Lentil Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette
This hearty salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled salmon with the comforting warmth of red lentils, all tied together with a tangy mustard vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked red lentils
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
4. Add the cooked lentils to the salad bowl and toss to combine.
5. Slice the grilled salmon into strips and add to the salad.
6. Drizzle the mustard vinaigrette over the top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including grilling time)
Salmon and Zucchini Fritters with Dill Yogurt Sauce
Start your day with a flavorful and healthy breakfast, or enjoy these fritters as a light dinner option. This recipe combines the omega-rich salmon with tender zucchini and a refreshing dill yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dill Yogurt Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine salmon, zucchini, flour, egg, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 8-10 patties.
4. Fry patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels.
Dill Yogurt Sauce:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, and a pinch of salt.
2. Serve sauce chilled alongside the fritters.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice
This recipe combines the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a fragrant and aromatic curry. Serve over fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Basmati rice, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve salmon over basmati rice and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 unique and flavorful salmon recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic dishes like Maple Glazed Salmon with Pecan Crust to innovative twists like Salmon Sushi Burritos with Spicy Mayo, there’s something for every taste. Try Blackened Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa or Salmon Wellington with Spinach and Mushrooms for a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spice up your meals, these recipes are sure to delight.