14 Summer Salmon Recipes That Are Fast, Fresh, And Perfect For Weeknights

Summer calls for meals that are light, vibrant, and quick to prepare—making salmon the ideal star ingredient for your dinner table. Packed with rich flavor and healthy nutrients, salmon fits perfectly into busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. From simple grilled fillets to zesty marinades and bright, fresh accompaniments, these recipes bring out the best of summer’s bounty alongside the natural richness of salmon.

This collection of 14 summer salmon recipes offers a range of options that are as easy to make as they are satisfying to eat. Whether you crave a tangy citrus glaze, a smoky char from the grill, or a refreshing salad pairing, these dishes come together quickly, helping you enjoy more time outdoors and less time fussing over dinner. Each recipe balances fresh ingredients with bold flavors, making your meals feel effortless yet special every time.

As you explore these recipes, you’ll also find helpful tips on cooking salmon to juicy perfection and ideas for light, seasonal sides that complement each dish beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these fast and fresh salmon meals are designed to fit seamlessly into your summer routine.

Get ready to savor the flavors of the season with simple, nourishing salmon dishes that make weeknight dinners something to look forward to.

Baked Pesto Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Pesto Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer evenings. The combination of tender salmon topped with vibrant pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a burst of fresh flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

The creamy texture of the salmon pairs beautifully with the aromatic pesto, while the roasted cherry tomatoes add a hint of sweetness. It’s a meal that feels special but takes very little time to whip up, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets in the dish.
3. Spread a generous amount of pesto over each salmon fillet.
4. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls

Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls are a delicious and quick dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of sweet honey, spicy elements, and savory garlic creates a flavor explosion that complements the tender salmon beautifully. This recipe is simple to prepare and is packed with vibrant veggies, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying bowl that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Paired with fluffy rice and colorful vegetables, these bowls are not only tasty but visually appealing too!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more to taste)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup assorted veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sriracha.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the marinade for at least 15 minutes.
3. Cook the Salmon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated salmon. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Prepare the Veggies: While the salmon is cooking, sauté the assorted veggies in a separate pan until tender.
5. Assemble the Bowl: Place cooked rice in a bowl, top with salmon, sautéed veggies, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro.

Mediterranean Salmon Pita Wraps

These Mediterranean Salmon Pita Wraps are a delightful and fresh way to enjoy salmon. Packed with vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, they are both satisfying and light, making them perfect for a weeknight meal. With a hint of lemon and a blend of herbs, the salmon is juicy and aromatic, complemented by crisp vegetables and a creamy sauce.

Preparing these wraps is a breeze. Simply grill or bake the salmon, toss in your favorite veggies, and wrap it all up in a warm pita. It’s a quick meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 whole wheat pita breads
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, and red onion)
• 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil, then sprinkle oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
2. Cook the salmon for about 5-6 minutes per side until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. While the salmon is cooking, chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
4. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in the oven for a minute or two.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing the salmon in the pita, adding the mixed veggies, and drizzling with tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

One-Pan Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

This One-Pan Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and healthy meal in no time. With the bright flavors of lemon and dill, the tender salmon pairs perfectly with crisp asparagus, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Easy to prepare and clean up, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just season your ingredients, pop them in the oven, and let the flavors meld together for a delightful family dinner!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, arrange the asparagus and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet with the asparagus. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle with fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
4. Top each salmon fillet with lemon slices.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve warm and enjoy your fresh, flavorful meal!

Teriyaki Salmon Skewers

Teriyaki salmon skewers are a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze pairs beautifully with the rich salmon, making each bite burst with flavor. Plus, grilling these skewers adds a smokiness that elevates the dish even further.

These skewers are simple to prepare and perfect for summer nights. Just marinate the salmon, thread it onto skewers, and grill. Serve with a side of rice or grilled veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Thread onto Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated salmon onto the skewers.
4. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your teriyaki salmon skewers!

Crispy Skin Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Enjoy a delightful and healthy meal with this crispy skin salmon topped with a fresh avocado salsa. The salmon is perfectly seared to achieve a golden, crispy skin that locks in moisture and flavor. Paired with a vibrant avocado salsa, this dish delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for summer nights. It’s also quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

The combination of the rich salmon with the creamy avocado and zesty salsa provides a burst of flavors that will impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets with skin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot.
3. Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
4. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Gently mix to combine.
5. Assemble: Serve the crispy salmon topped with the avocado salsa. Enjoy!

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon Fillets

This recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon Fillets is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor, thanks to the vibrant mix of lemon and herbs. The grilling adds a delightful smoky touch, making the salmon incredibly tender and juicy.

What’s great about this dish is how simple it is to prepare—just marinate the salmon, throw it on the grill, and enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and serve with additional lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Smoky Chipotle Salmon Tacos

Smoky Chipotle Salmon Tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh salmon in a quick and easy meal. With a blend of smoky chipotle flavors and zesty toppings, these tacos bring a delightful kick to your weeknight dinners. They’re vibrant, full of flavor, and perfect for those warm summer evenings.

Making these tacos is a breeze. Simply season your salmon, grill or bake it, and then pile it onto soft tortillas with your favorite fresh toppings. The combination of smoky spices and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. You’ll love how quickly this comes together!

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the chipotle powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the salmon fillets.
3. Grill or bake the salmon for about 10-12 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the salmon is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Once the salmon is ready, flake it into pieces and distribute it evenly among the tortillas.
6. Top the tacos with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and avocado slices. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon

This honey mustard glazed salmon is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that makes for a perfect weeknight meal. It’s quick to prepare and can be on your dinner table in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings.

The combination of honey and mustard creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, giving it a shiny, inviting look. The dish pairs well with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad, making it a wholesome choice for a summer dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over each fillet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious honey mustard glazed salmon!

Zesty Coconut Curry Salmon

Get ready for a salmon dish that’s bursting with flavor! Zesty Coconut Curry Salmon combines the rich taste of salmon with a vibrant coconut curry sauce, creating a delightful balance of creamy and spicy. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish.

The flavors of coconut milk, curry paste, and fresh herbs come together beautifully to make each bite a taste of summer. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir over medium heat until well mixed and simmering.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then add them to the saucepan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Serve the salmon over cooked rice, drizzling the coconut curry sauce on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Sesame Ginger Salmon Salad

This sesame ginger salmon salad is a delightful mix of fresh flavors that perfectly captures the essence of summer. The combination of tender salmon, crunchy greens, and a zesty dressing makes for a light yet satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

The flavors of sesame and ginger meld beautifully, adding a refreshing kick to the dish. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a go-to option for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 6 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Salmon: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until it flakes easily with a fork.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked salmon on top of the salad. Drizzle with extra dressing if desired and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Sweet and Sour Salmon Stir-Fry

This Sweet and Sour Salmon Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet satisfying.

The combination of sweet and sour flavors creates a delightful balance, making this dish a hit with both adults and kids. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Place salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, broccoli, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce, mixing well. Return the salmon to the skillet, allowing it to warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy!

Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta

Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta is a delightful dish that balances the rich taste of salmon with the zesty brightness of lemon. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and satisfying.

The combination of garlic, lemon, and tender salmon creates a light yet flavorful meal that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for a complete experience!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb salmon fillet, cubed
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Salmon: Toss in the cubed salmon and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Salmon Pasta!

Cilantro Lime Salmon with Quinoa

Cilantro Lime Salmon with Quinoa brings together the freshness of cilantro and zesty lime, creating a vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm summer evenings. The salmon is lightly seasoned, letting the flavors shine through while staying simple enough for a weeknight meal.

This recipe is not just quick but also nutritious, combining the heartiness of quinoa with the rich taste of salmon. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Season the Salmon: While the quinoa cooks, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Cook the Salmon: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Serve: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide among plates. Top with the cilantro lime salmon and garnish with additional lime wedges and cilantro.

Final Thoughts
With these 14 summer salmon recipes in your repertoire, weeknight meals become a breeze without compromising on taste or freshness. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, they’re the perfect way to enjoy the best of the season while keeping things easy and satisfying. Dive in and discover your new favorite go-to salmon dishes for summer!