Salmon is not only a highly nutritious fish packed with omega-3 fatty acids but also a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special dinner party, these 12 super simple salmon recipes are sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. From zesty lemon and herb-infused recipes to savory glazed and crusted options, there’s a salmon recipe for every palate. So, let’s dive into these mouthwatering dishes and explore the fantastic world of salmon cuisine!
1. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 fresh lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Sprinkle the chopped dill, salt, and pepper over the fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot and enjoy this light and flavorful dish.
2. Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until slightly charred and fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture over the grilled salmon fillets before serving.
- Enjoy the rich flavors of garlic-infused grilled salmon.
3. Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the honey mustard glaze over the salmon fillets, coating them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized, and the salmon is fully cooked.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes and relish the sweet and tangy flavors.
4. Teriyaki Salmon
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, mix the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the teriyaki marinade.
- Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and coat them well.
- Let the salmon marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a grill or a pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the salmon from the marinade and grill or pan-sear for about 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked, brushing with the marinade occasionally.
- Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a delightful Asian-inspired dinner.
5. Lemon Herb Salmon Foil Packets
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 fresh lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, parsley), chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil.
- Place each salmon fillet on an individual foil sheet.
- Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices and the chopped fresh herbs.
- Seal the foil tightly to create packets.
- Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the salmon is tender and fully cooked.
- Open the foil packets carefully, and your delightful lemon herb salmon is ready to be enjoyed.
6. Cajun Blackened Salmon
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning blend and olive oil to form a paste.
- Rub the Cajun seasoning paste evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until blackened and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon and a side of fresh salad for a zesty and spicy treat.
7. Pesto Baked Salmon
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto sauce over each fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and the pesto is slightly browned and crispy.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or your favorite pasta for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner.
8. Maple Glazed Salmon
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the maple glaze over the salmon fillets, coating them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized, and the salmon is fully cooked.
- Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a satisfying and wholesome dinner.
9. Lemon Pepper Grilled Salmon
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 fresh lemon, juiced
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon fillets generously with lemon pepper seasoning.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled salmon fillets before serving.
- Enjoy the refreshing and zesty flavors of lemon pepper grilled salmon.
10. Mediterranean Baked Salmon
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Top each fillet with diced tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano over the toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked, and the toppings are lightly browned.
- Serve with a side of couscous or a fresh Greek salad for a taste of the Mediterranean.
11. Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and olive oil to create the crust mixture.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press the Parmesan crust mixture onto each fillet, covering them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the salmon is fully cooked.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful and savory dinner.
Conclusion
Salmon is undoubtedly a superstar in the culinary world, and these 12 super simple recipes showcase its incredible versatility. From zesty and refreshing lemon-dill baked salmon to the bold and spicy Cajun blackened salmon, each recipe offers a unique and delightful dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and promise a burst of flavors in every bite.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste and nutrition, try one of these fantastic salmon recipes. Your family and friends will be impressed, and your taste buds will thank you for the delectable journey through the world of salmon cuisine!