14+ Salmon Dinner Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals

I still remember one weeknight when the clock read 6 15 and the kids wanted something quick but not boring. I reached for a few salmon fillets, some lemon, and whatever greens were in the fridge, and in under 30 minutes we had dinner that tasted like a small celebration. If you are looking for 14+ Salmon Dinner Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals this is the kind of honest, doable collection I turn to when time is short and flavor matters.

1. Pan Seared Lemon Butter Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the kind of go to dinner that feels fancy but is fast. It is perfect when you have a busy evening and want a crisp, golden exterior with tender, flaky fish inside. Serve it on a weeknight when you want something simple that still impresses.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each skin on
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 lemon juiced and 4 lemon wedges for serving
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make It:

1. Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering.
3. Place salmon skin side down and cook without moving 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crisp.
4. Flip the fillets and add butter and lemon juice to the pan. Spoon the butter over the salmon for 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through.
5. Remove salmon and quickly sauté the baby spinach in the same pan until just wilted.
6. Plate spinach, top with salmon, spoon any pan juices over the fish and garnish with parsley and lemon wedge.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning for a warm smoky note.

Serving Idea: Serve with roasted baby potatoes or steamed rice for a complete meal.

2. Baked Lemon Herb Salmon with Asparagus

Why You’ll Love It:

This one pan tray bake is perfect when you want minimal cleanup and a bright, herby dinner. The salmon is moist and infuses the asparagus with flavor as it bakes. Ideal for nights when you are juggling after school errands and need dinner ready quickly.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed about 1 pound
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 lemon thinly sliced plus juice of half a lemon
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Arrange salmon and asparagus on the sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle garlic dill parsley salt and pepper over the salmon and asparagus.
4. Place lemon slices over each fillet and squeeze remaining lemon juice over the pan.
5. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until salmon flakes easily and asparagus is tender.
6. Serve straight from the pan with extra lemon on the side.

Meal Prep Tip: Trim asparagus and store in a jar of cold water in the fridge for up to two days to save time.

Best Pairings: Simple quinoa and a green salad.

3. Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

Sweet sticky glaze meets savory salmon for a dinner that feels special but takes minutes. It is a family favorite because the glaze is mild enough for kids and satisfying for adults. Make it for a weeknight when you want comfort without a lot of fuss.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions thinly sliced

How to Make It:

1. Whisk honey soy sauce rice vinegar garlic and ginger in a small bowl.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add salmon skin side down for 4 minutes.
3. Flip salmon and pour the sauce over the fillets.
4. Cook 3 to 4 more minutes spooning glaze over the salmon until it is sticky and cooked through.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Swap This With That: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper caramel note.

Serving Idea: Serve with steamed jasmine rice and quick pickled cucumbers.

4. Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

Why You’ll Love It:

These bowls are designed for speed and balance with protein carbs and veg all in one. The teriyaki glaze caramelizes on the salmon and pairs perfectly with crisp vegetables. Great for a worknight when you want a satisfying bowl that reheats well.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 1/2 cup soy sauce low sodium
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets blanched
• 1 large carrot julienned
• 1 avocado sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make It:

1. Combine soy sauce mirin brown sugar and ginger in a small saucepan and simmer 3 minutes.
2. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens then remove from heat.
3. Cook salmon in a nonstick skillet 4 minutes per side brushing with teriyaki sauce until glazed.
4. Divide rice into bowls top with salmon and arrange broccoli carrots and avocado around the fish.
5. Drizzle extra sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds.

Meal Prep Tip: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to three days then assemble and warm for quick lunches.

Best Pairings: Pickled ginger and a side of edamame.

5. Salmon Patties with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

Salmon patties are a pan fried shortcut to a homemade fish cake that uses canned or leftover cooked salmon. They are budget friendly and kid friendly and make excellent sandwiches or a plated weeknight dinner.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans 14 75 oz salmon drained and flaked or 1 pound cooked salmon flaked
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs divided
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 large egg beaten
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons olive oil for frying

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dill Yogurt Sauce

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl combine salmon 1/2 cup panko red onion egg mayonnaise mustard and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Form mixture into eight small patties and coat each in remaining panko.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry patties 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and heated through.
4. Whisk yogurt dill and lemon juice and season to taste.
5. Serve patties with dill yogurt sauce and lemon wedges.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use canned salmon to cut cost without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Idea: Serve on toasted buns with lettuce and pickles for a casual sandwich.

6. One Pan Salmon and New Potatoes

Why You’ll Love It:

Roasted potatoes crisp at the edges while salmon stays tender making a complete easy dinner on one pan. It is low fuss and very satisfying when you want warm roasted flavors on a busy evening.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds new potatoes halved
• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary chopped
• 4 cloves garlic smashed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for serving

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425 F and toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil rosemary salt and pepper on a sheet pan. Roast 15 minutes.
2. Drizzle remaining olive oil over salmon and season with salt and pepper.
3. Push potatoes to the sides and place salmon and garlic on the pan. Roast 8 to 10 minutes until salmon is done.
4. Serve with a smear of Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard on the side.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not overcrowd the pan or the potatoes will steam not crisp. Give space for roasting.

Serving Idea: Add a quick green salad for freshness.

7. Creamy Salmon Pasta with Peas

Why You’ll Love It:

Creamy pasta and tender salmon feel indulgent but the recipe comes together fast. It is a great way to turn a weeknight into something cozy without hours of work. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
• 1 pound salmon cooked and flaked
• 1 cup frozen peas thawed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan plus extra for serving
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions reserving 1 cup pasta water.
2. In a large skillet melt butter and sauté shallot until soft about 2 minutes.
3. Add cream and bring to a simmer then stir in Parmesan until sauce is smooth.
4. Add pasta peas and flaked salmon tossing gently and add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
5. Finish with lemon juice salt and pepper and serve with extra Parmesan.

Flavor Boost: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest for brighter flavor.

Swap This With That: Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

8. Blackened Cajun Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

If you want bold spice and crunchy edges this recipe delivers with minimal effort. The blackened crust gives smoky heat while the inside remains flaky. It is a good pick when you want big flavor on a busy night.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne adjust to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Lime wedges for serving

How to Make It:

1. Mix spices paprika garlic powder onion powder cayenne thyme and salt.
2. Pat salmon dry and rub spice mix generously on both sides.
3. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until very hot.
4. Sear salmon 3 to 4 minutes per side until a dark crust forms and fish is cooked through.
5. Serve with lime wedges and a simple rice or salad.

Serving Idea: Serve over cilantro lime rice and a side of black beans.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not move the fillet too soon while searing or the crust will not form.

9. Miso Glazed Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

Miso gives a rich umami depth with a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully. This recipe feels restaurant worthy but takes minutes to prepare and is forgiving for weeknight cooks.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 3 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce low sodium
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 scallions thinly sliced

How to Make It:

1. Whisk miso mirin soy sauce honey and ginger into a smooth glaze.
2. Pat salmon dry and spread half the glaze over each fillet. Let sit 5 minutes.
3. Broil or bake at 425 F for 8 to 10 minutes until glaze is bubbling and fish is cooked.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallions and serve with rice.

Flavor Boost: Broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes to get a deeper caramel color.

Serving Idea: Pair with quick cucumber salad for acidity.

10. Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

Grilling on a cedar plank adds a subtle smoky roundness that tastes like summer but is simple enough for a weeknight. The plank keeps the fish moist and adds visual drama if you are serving friends or family.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 1 cedar plank soaked in water at least 1 hour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Lemon slices

How to Make It:

1. Soak cedar plank at least one hour then heat grill to medium high.
2. Mix olive oil honey and Dijon and brush on salmon then season with salt.
3. Place plank on grill with salmon on top and close lid. Cook 12 to 15 minutes until salmon flakes with a fork.
4. Garnish with dill and lemon slices before serving.

Best Pairings: Grilled corn and a summer tomato salad.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Ensure the plank is well soaked to prevent burning and to produce gentle smoke.

11. Salmon Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Why You’ll Love It:

Tacos are fast to assemble and fun to customize. Crisp slaw and tender salmon make a light dinner that satisfies without feeling heavy. Perfect for a casual weeknight that still feels like a treat.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound salmon cut into 8 pieces
• 8 small corn tortillas warmed
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice plus wedges for serving
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Toss cabbage and cilantro with yogurt mayonnaise and lime juice to make slaw and season with salt.
2. Season salmon pieces with cumin chili powder salt and pepper.
3. Pan sear salmon 2 to 3 minutes per side until cooked through then flake.
4. Warm tortillas and assemble by adding slaw salmon and any extra lime juice.
5. Serve with radish slices or avocado if desired.

Swap This With That: Use flour tortillas or lettuce leaves for a lower carb option.

Serving Idea: Offer pickled onions and hot sauce at the table.

12. Salmon Foil Packets with Lemon and Herbs

Why You’ll Love It:

Foil packets are a weeknight saver because they steam themselves and require no cleanup. Each packet locks in flavor and steam cooks the salmon and vegetables evenly. Great for nights when you want to get dinner on the table with minimal babysitting.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed cut into 2 inch pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 4 lemon slices plus juice of half a lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F and cut four sheets of foil large enough to fold into packets.
2. Place salmon on each sheet and divide asparagus and tomatoes around the fillets.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper then top each fillet with a lemon slice and parsley.
4. Fold foil to seal packets and bake 15 to 18 minutes until salmon is opaque and vegetables are tender.
5. Open carefully and serve.

Meal Prep Tip: Assemble packets ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours then bake when ready.

Flavor Boost: Add a small pat of herbed butter to each packet before sealing.

13. Quick Salmon Stir Fry with Snap Peas

Why You’ll Love It:

Stir fry is speedy and flexible and it is a great way to use bite sized salmon pieces with crunchy vegetables. The high heat keeps textures vibrant making this an energetic weeknight option.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound salmon cut into 1 inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
• 2 cups snap peas trimmed
• 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Whisk soy sauce rice vinegar honey and sesame oil and set aside.
2. Heat half the oil in a wok over high heat and sear salmon cubes 1 to 2 minutes per side until just cooked then remove.
3. Add remaining oil and stir fry snap peas and bell pepper 2 to 3 minutes until crisp tender.
4. Return salmon and add garlic ginger and sauce tossing quickly to coat and heat through.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve over rice.

Swap This With That: Use tofu or shrimp instead of salmon for variation.

Best Pairings: Serve with steamed jasmine rice and a side of kimchi.

14. Salmon and Corn Chowder

Why You’ll Love It:

A warm creamy chowder is perfect on cooler nights and feels like comfort food while still being substantial. Chunks of salmon and sweet corn make it a family friendly dinner that reheats beautifully.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound salmon cut into 1 inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced about 2 cups
• 3 cups corn kernels fresh or frozen
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme dried
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic potatoes corn broth and thyme and simmer until potatoes are tender about 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Stir in cream and then add salmon pieces and simmer gently 5 to 7 minutes until salmon is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with chives.
5. Serve with crusty bread.

Meal Prep Tip: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat gently to avoid breaking the salmon apart.

Personal Note: A splash of white wine added with the broth lifts the flavor if you have it on hand.

15. Warm Salmon Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette

Why You’ll Love It:

A warm salmon salad is a fast way to feel nourished and light while still filling. Seared salmon on a bed of greens with a bright mustard dressing is perfect for nights when you want something fresh and quick.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets 5 to 6 oz each
• 8 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cucumber sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta optional
• 3 tablespoons olive oil for dressing
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Whisk olive oil Dijon vinegar honey salt and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
2. Season salmon and sear in a skillet 3 to 4 minutes per side until cooked through then let rest 2 minutes.
3. Toss salad greens tomatoes cucumber and feta with dressing and divide among plates.
4. Top each salad with a warm salmon fillet and serve.

Serving Idea: Add warm roasted beets or fingerling potatoes to make it heartier.

Flavor Boost: Stir a little lemon zest into the vinaigrette for brightness.

FAQ

How long does fresh salmon keep in the fridge

Fresh salmon will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days when stored in its original packaging or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed on a plate to catch any drips.

Can I use frozen salmon for these recipes

Yes you can. Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Adjust cook time as needed since thawed fillets may release more moisture.

What is the best internal temperature for cooked salmon

Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 125 to 130 F for medium doneness or 145 F if you prefer well done. The fish should flake easily with a fork.

How can I make these recipes kid friendly

Tone down spices and serve familiar sides like rice pasta or mashed potatoes. Use mild glazes like honey garlic and include a simple vegetable or fruit that your children like.

Conclusion

These 14 salmon dinner ideas are built for real weeknights when time is limited but flavor still matters. From quick pan sears to one pan roasts and simple bowls, each recipe is practical and forgiving so you will feel confident trying new flavors. Pick a method that matches the time you have and the ingredients on hand and let small tweaks make the meals your own. Cooking salmon regularly is a fast way to add more protein and fresh flavor to the week and these recipes are designed to keep dinner both easy and satisfying.