Salmon is a versatile, flavorful, and nutrient-packed fish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. These 11 easy and delicious salmon recipes make it simple to enjoy this healthy protein without spending hours in the kitchen. From quick pan-seared fillets to baked favorites, each dish is designed to be flavorful, approachable, and family-friendly.
Start with lemon garlic baked salmon, a classic that’s light, tangy, and ready in under 20 minutes. For a richer option, try honey mustard glazed salmon, where sweet and tangy flavors caramelize perfectly in the oven. Teriyaki salmon brings an Asian-inspired twist, marinated in a savory-sweet sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables.
For quick stovetop meals, pan-seared salmon with garlic butter delivers a crisp exterior and tender, juicy center. Crispy skin salmon is another favorite, where the skin is perfectly golden while the flesh stays flaky. If you want a family-friendly option, salmon patties or salmon cakes are perfect for pairing with salad, rice, or even in sandwiches.
Add some Mediterranean flair with Greek-style salmon, seasoned with lemon, olive oil, and herbs. Maple Dijon salmon gives a sweet and tangy flavor profile, while spicy Cajun salmon adds a little kick for those who love bold flavors. For a comforting one-pan meal, salmon with roasted vegetables combines protein and seasonal veggies in a single dish.
Lastly, salmon foil packets are perfect for effortless cleanup and juicy, flavorful results—season with herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon for a simple yet delicious dinner.
These easy salmon recipes prove that cooking healthy, restaurant-quality fish at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and maximum flavor, you can enjoy salmon any night of the week while keeping meals fresh, exciting, and nutritious.
Firecracker Salmon
“This salmon gets marinated in a maple and jalapeno sauce, then gets topped with additional maple syrup during baking, for a perfect spicy-sweet marriage of flavors,” says France C. “This only has a hint of heat, so double the jalapeno if desired. Use center-cut salmon fillets that are approximately 1-inch thick.”
Fast Salmon with a Ginger Glaze
Chef John says, “This glaze is really wonderful on salmon, but equally delicious on swordfish, halibut, tuna, or any other firm, full-flavored fish.”
Salmon Foil-Pack Dinner
“You can make these easy salmon foil packets ahead of time or as a last-minute dinner idea,” says bd.weld. “Feel free to switch up the seasoning or vegetables to your liking. Perfect for the oven or the outdoor grill.”
Chef John’s Broiled Herb-Encrusted Salmon
Here’s an incredibly simple, quick, and flavorful salmon recipe, featuring garlic, salt, and fresh herbs, Dijon, mayo, cayenne, and a splash of lemon juice. “I love the combination of tarragon and Italian parsley, but I’ve used herbs like basil and thyme, which worked wonderfully as well,” says Chef John. A center-cut salmon filet is a perfect thickness for this recipe.
Salmon with Lemon and Dill
“The flavors of lemon and dill really complement the fish,” says Michelle. “I like to use wild Alaskan salmon for this recipe, but any salmon will work. Play with the ingredients to suit your own tastes!”
Lemon-Pepper Salmon
“Simple, tasty, and fast!” says AMAGICITY. “Salmon is sauteed with all ingredients at once and served over couscous. Great with a spinach salad.”
Spicy Garlic Salmon
“This is an unbelievably delicious and quick salmon recipe,” says Natalie. “You can play around with the ingredients: add fresh basil leaves instead of the chili or balsamic instead of the lemon juice. But the wholegrain mustard is essential.”
Baked Salmon with Lemony Orzo and Basil-Bacon Peas
“Orzo, lemon, basil, bacon, peas, and baked salmon come together to make a quick and easy weeknight pasta dish,” says Julie Hubert.
