14+ Salmon Recipes Everyone Loves

Some nights, making dinner isn’t about fancy skills—it’s about feeding people you care about, quickly, and feeling good at the end of it. I remember the first time I cooked salmon for my family because I wanted something that looked impressive but was secretly easy. Now, “What’s for dinner?” gets answered a lot with salmon on busy weeknights, lazy Sunday lunches, or for a simple date-night at home. It’s that go-to option everyone weirdly craves, and you can do so much with it. That’s probably why you’re here, looking for 14+ salmon recipes everyone loves, hoping to find ideas that deliver flavor and real-life happiness, not extra stress.

1. Maple Glazed Salmon Fillets

Why You’ll Love It:

The sweet-and-savory combo of maple syrup and soy sauce wins over even picky eaters. It’s quick and looks gorgeous on the table, so you can pull it off for weeknights or when friends drop by. Minimal cleanup too.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley and lemon wedges, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon, olive oil, and garlic in a small bowl.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush glaze mixture over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Optional Enhancers (choose 2):

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for subtle heat.

Serving Idea: Delicious served over garlic mashed potatoes or steamed green beans.

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2. Easy Lemon Dill Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

This is dinner that feels bright and springy no matter the season. The lemon and dill make everything taste super fresh. I love it for make-ahead lunches—cold or warm, it just works.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a small baking dish with foil.
2. Rub salmon with olive oil and season all over with salt and pepper.
3. Place lemon slices and most of the dill over each fillet.
4. Bake for 13 minutes, until salmon is just cooked through.
5. Garnish with more dill before serving.

Swap This With That: Use parsley or tarragon if you don’t have dill.

Meal Prep Tip: Chill cooked salmon and flake it into salads for lunch.

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3. One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Veggies

Why You’ll Love It:

This is my dump-and-bake weeknight hack. Salmon, broccoli, and carrots all roast on one tray, and the teriyaki glaze means no bland bites. It’s family-friendly and lunchbox-ready.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 17 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet.
3. Nestle salmon fillets among the veggies and brush with teriyaki sauce.
4. Roast for 17 minutes, until salmon is cooked and veggies are tender.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for some kick.

Meal Prep Tip: Divide leftovers into containers for quick lunches.

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4. Salmon Caesar Salad

Why You’ll Love It:

Caesar salad but with “oh wow” protein—this gets applause at potlucks or as a breezy dinner when you’re craving greens. The warm salmon contrasts perfectly with the crisp lettuce and creamy dressing.

Serving size: Serves 3

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 10 oz salmon (one large filet or two small)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 cups chopped romaine
• 1/3 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup homemade or store croutons
• 1/4 cup shaved parmesan
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place salmon on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake 13–15 minutes until cooked through, then flake into chunks.
4. In a large bowl, toss romaine with dressing and croutons.
5. Top salad with warm salmon and parmesan. Serve with lemon.

Swap This With That: Sub kale for romaine for more crunch.

Best Pairings: Garlic bread and iced tea work great alongside.

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5. Pesto Baked Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

A jar of pesto transforms salmon into something next-level. When I make this, the house smells like a trattoria, and dinner is ready almost as fast as the pasta boils.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Arrange salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pat fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread pesto evenly over the top of each piece.
4. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the salmon.
5. Bake for 12 minutes until salmon is flaky and pesto is slightly crisp.
6. Garnish with basil.

Personal Note: Leftover pesto salmon is incredible over cold pasta for lunch.

Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon at the table for extra zing.

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6. Sesame Crusted Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

Crispy, nutty sesame gives salmon restaurant vibes without any fuss. There’s something about the crunch that makes even basic dinners more special.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
• 2 tsp olive or avocado oil
• Salt, to taste
• Sliced scallions
• Soy sauce, for drizzling

How to Make It:

1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt.
2. Mix black and white sesame seeds on a plate.
3. Press each side of the salmon into seeds to coat.
4. Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place fillets in pan, cook 4–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
6. Garnish with scallions and soy sauce.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t move the salmon too soon or seeds may not stick well.

Serving Idea: Serve with a cucumber salad and white rice.

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7. Honey Garlic Salmon Sheet Pan

Why You’ll Love It:

This is sticky, sweet, and always a hit at my family table—especially with kids. No need to hover over the stove, and everything on one pan.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onion, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment.
2. Whisk honey, soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl.
3. Arrange salmon and veggies on pan. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush salmon with honey garlic mixture.
5. Roast for 18 minutes, until salmon is glazed and veggies tender.
6. Top with green onion to serve.

Best Pairings: Good with brown rice or simple quinoa salad.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use frozen sliced bell peppers.

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8. Classic Salmon Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

A can of salmon and you’re halfway to comfort food. These quick patties make the best lunch sandwiches or stand-alone dinner—everyone in our house always wants seconds.

Serving size: Serves 3

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 11 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 14 oz canned salmon, drained
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp mayo
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp minced onion
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Flake salmon in a large bowl, removing any large bones.
2. Add egg, breadcrumbs, mayo, mustard, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
3. Shape into six small patties.
4. Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until crisp.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Swap This With That: Use crushed saltines if you’re out of panko.

Serving Idea: Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato.

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9. Salmon Chowder

Why You’ll Love It:

Thick, creamy, and packed with veggies—this cozy soup is a favorite for chilly Fridays or any night you want a bowl of something soothing.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 18 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 43 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cups diced Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 3/4 lb salmon, skin removed, cut in chunks
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, add onion, celery, and carrot; sauté 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes and broth; bring to a boil, reduce to simmer until potatoes are almost tender, 10 minutes.
3. Stir in corn and salmon. Simmer 8–10 minutes, until salmon is cooked.
4. Lower heat, stir in milk, cream, and dill. Warm through and season to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with more dill.

Meal Prep Tip: Chowder keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days.

Best Pairings: Serve with sourdough bread and a green salad.

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10. Chili Lime Grilled Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

The spicy citrus rub is perfect for grilling season or anytime you crave a quick, zippy protein. Toss it on a salad or tuck it into tacos—the leftovers are gold.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 lime, zested and halved
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Rub salmon with olive oil.
2. Mix chili powder, cumin, lime zest, salt, and red pepper flakes; sprinkle generously on both sides of fillets.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high.
4. Grill salmon 4–5 minutes per side, until nicely marked and flaky.
5. Squeeze lime juice over and garnish with cilantro.

Serving Idea: Great in tacos with cabbage slaw and avocado cream.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook—pull salmon off as soon as it flakes.

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11. Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta

Why You’ll Love It:

Rich but not heavy, this is the meal I make when I want easy comfort with real flavor. The garlic butter coats the pasta and salmon perfectly.

Serving size: Serves 3

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 8 oz linguine or fettuccine
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 8 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté 1 minutes.
3. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Gently mix in cooked salmon and drained pasta.
5. Add a splash of pasta water and parmesan; toss until glossy.
6. Season and serve warm.

Flavor Boost: Stir in a squeeze of lemon or a few capers at the end.

Swap This With That: Use penne or spaghetti if that’s what you have.

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12. Crispy Skin Pan-Seared Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

When someone asks for “crispy skin,” this is the trick. The simple salt-and-sear method makes weeknight salmon feel like a restaurant treat.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 11 minutes

Total Time: 16 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets, skin on (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp canola or olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Pat salmon skin very dry. Salt generously.
2. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
3. Place salmon skin-side down, pressing gently for 10 seconds.
4. Cook 7–8 minutes until skin is crisp; flip and cook 2–3 minutes more.
5. Remove and let rest briefly. Serve with lemon.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t move the fillets as they sear—the skin won’t crisp.

Best Pairings: Roasted potatoes and garlicky greens.

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13. Mediterranean Salmon Bowl

Why You’ll Love It:

This bowl delivers all the best flavors—herby, lemony, and fresh. Meal preppers at my house love how easy it is to get veggies, protein, and grains in every bite.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup cooked pearl couscous
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta
• 1/3 cup tzatziki
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush salmon with olive oil and season with oregano, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cooked through.
4. Assemble bowls with couscous, veggies, olives, and feta.
5. Place salmon fillet on top, drizzle with lemon juice and tzatziki, garnish with parsley.

Meal Prep Tip: Assemble bowls in containers (hold off tzatziki until serving).

Swap This With That: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of couscous.

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14. Salmon & Veggie Foil Packets

Why You’ll Love It:

No dishes and hardly any mess. Everything steams together for juicy salmon and perfectly cooked veggies—great for grilling or oven nights.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 9 minutes

Cook Time: 17 minutes

Total Time: 26 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
• 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp fresh thyme or basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven or grill to 400°F (200°C).
2. Divide zucchini, pepper, and tomatoes between two large sheets of foil. Drizzle with oil and season.
3. Place a salmon fillet on each veggie pile. Sprinkle with herbs and lemon juice.
4. Fold up foil to seal.
5. Bake or grill 17 minutes, until salmon is tender.
6. Open packets carefully, serve with lemon.

Serving Idea: Serve packets with hearty bread.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

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15. Spicy Sriracha Mayo Salmon Sushi Bowls

Why You’ll Love It:

Sushi night, zero fuss—just a bowl of sushi rice, spicy salmon, and your favorite toppings. Everyone customizes their own, so no one complains.

Serving size: Serves 3

Prep Time: 18 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 oz salmon fillet
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 3 cups cooked sushi rice
• 1/2 cup edamame
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1–2 tsp sriracha
• 1 sheet nori, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Pickled ginger, for serving
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined sheet pan, drizzle with oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Bake for 12 minutes until cooked. Cube the salmon.
3. Stir together mayo and sriracha for a spicy sauce.
4. Divide rice between bowls, top with salmon, drizzle with sauce.
5. Add edamame, avocado, nori, sesame, and ginger as toppings.

Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of furikake.

Meal Prep Tip: Store rice and toppings separately for fresh assembly.

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16. Herb Crusted Salmon

Why You’ll Love It:

This is what I make when I want salmon to feel extra special with barely more effort than tossing it in the oven. The breadcrumbs give a crunchy top, and the herbs make the whole house smell delicious.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix panko, parsley, dill, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Press panko mixture on top of salmon fillets.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 14–15 minutes until crust is golden and salmon is cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t add topping while salmon is wet—pat it dry first for a crunchy crust.

Best Pairings: Roasted carrots and a spring greens salad.

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FAQ

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and looks just opaque in the thickest part. It should have a moist, silky texture. If you’re using a thermometer, shoot for 125–130°F.

Can I use frozen salmon for these recipes?

Yes, most of these recipes work well with frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or under cool running water before cooking, and always pat it dry for the best results.

What are good sides to serve with salmon?

Classic pairings like roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, sautéed greens, or a bright salad make great sides. You can switch it up with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread if you want to keep things fresh.

How do I store leftover salmon and reheat it?

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a low oven or in the microwave at 50% power to keep it from drying out.

Conclusion

Cooking salmon is a small gift you can give yourself and anyone you’re feeding—healthy, fast, and surprisingly versatile. With so many 14+ salmon recipes everyone loves, you have something for any mood: crisp and fresh, rich and comforting, spicy, or a little sweet. The best part is, none of these recipes demand perfect timing or skills. Try out one or two, mix up the flavors, and don’t be afraid to swap in what you have on hand. The kitchen should be a place of low stress and big flavor, and salmon makes that possible. Here’s to making dinnertime easy, delicious, and a little more joyful—one salmon recipe at a time.