When it comes to cooking for kids, finding recipes that are both delicious and kid-friendly can be a challenge. But what if you could make salmon, a nutrient-rich fish packed with omega-3s and protein, into a meal that your little ones would love? We’ve got 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make salmon recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki skewers, we’ve got you covered with these creative and tasty ideas. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of kid-friendly salmon recipes that are perfect for mealtime or as an after-school snack.
Honey Glazed Salmon Bites
Elevate your seafood game with these sweet and savory salmon bites glazed with a honey-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Place salmon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over the salmon.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Salmon Quesadillas
These savory quesadillas combine the richness of salmon with the creaminess of cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cooked and flaked
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the cooked salmon, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the salmon-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salmon and Sweet Potato Patties
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional patties, these Salmon and Sweet Potato Patties are a great way to get your omega-3 fix while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, mashed sweet potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/8 inch of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as lemon wedges, chopped fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Teriyaki Salmon Skewers
Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Salmon Skewer recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering. The combination of sweet teriyaki sauce and smoky grilled salmon is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut salmon into 1-inch pieces and thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Salmon Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the added smokiness of salmon. This recipe combines the comfort food classic with a protein-packed twist that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add flaked salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a separate pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, salmon mixture, cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Panko-Crusted Salmon Nuggets
A crispy and flavorful twist on traditional salmon nuggets, these Panko-crusted bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend snack. With the help of Japanese-style breadcrumbs and a hint of lemon, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut salmon fillets into nugget-sized pieces.
3. In a shallow dish, mix Panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated salmon nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with lemon juice and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Veggie Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled salmon, sautéed vegetables, and al dente pasta for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Grill salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta, grilled salmon, and vegetable mixture in a serving dish.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Salmon Burgers
These bite-sized burgers pack a flavorful punch with the richness of salmon and the crunch of panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns (mini)
• Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together salmon, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a patty.
4. Place patties onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little water to prevent sticking.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble burgers by placing a cooked patty on a mini bun, adding your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with the rich flavor of salmon, sweetness of corn, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine salmon, corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg and melted butter to the mixture; stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the salmon mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy; flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Hidden Veggie Salmon Meatballs
A healthier twist on traditional meatballs, these Hidden Veggie Salmon Meatballs are packed with nutrients and flavor. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine salmon, oats, mushrooms, zucchini, carrot, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with marinara sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of smoky salmon, melted cheddar, and crispy bread. This unique twist on a classic comfort food is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Salmon and Rice Cakes
A flavorful and nutritious snack or light meal, these salmon and rice cakes are perfect for a quick bite. With the combination of omega-rich salmon and wholesome brown rice, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup canned salmon (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, salmon, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Pan-fry the cakes in a non-stick skillet with about 1/2 inch of water over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as is.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salmon Tater Tot Casserole
A twist on the classic tater tot casserole, this recipe combines the flavors of salmon and dill with crispy tater tots for a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 2 cups tater tots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup dill sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the peas and carrots; cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cooked salmon, dill sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange half of the tater tots in the bottom of the dish.
5. Top the tater tots with the salmon mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Repeat the layers: tater tots, salmon mixture, and cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon Pizza Rolls
Elevate your pizza game with these bite-sized Salmon Pizza Rolls, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of refrigerated pizza dough (14.1 oz)
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup of cooked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the softened cream cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped parsley, flaked salmon, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides.
6. Cut into 8 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Avocado Wraps
These delicious wraps are a perfect combination of protein-packed salmon, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, all wrapped up in a whole wheat tortilla. A great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cooked salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp hummus
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the flaked salmon on one half of each tortilla and top with sliced avocado.
3. Add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on top of the salmon.
4. Spread 1 tbsp hummus on the other half of the tortilla and place it on top of the filling.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Salmon and Cheese Pinwheels
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious salmon and cheese pinwheels! A twist on traditional pinwheels, this recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with creamy melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup diced smoked salmon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 8-10 tortilla wraps (flour or whole wheat)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, chopped dill, and diced salmon until well combined.
3. Place a spoonful of the salmon mixture onto the center of each tortilla wrap.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top (if using).
5. Roll up each wrap tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and wraps are crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Broccoli Alfredo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon, broccoli, and cream to create a satisfying and indulgent pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cooked salmon to the skillet and stir to combine with broccoli.
4. In a separate saucepan, bring heavy cream to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, salmon-broccoli mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Pea Risotto
This vibrant risotto combines succulent salmon with sweet peas and a rich creamy sauce, making it a perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in flaked salmon, peas, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon and Carrot Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the natural sweetness of carrots, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, grated carrots, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Spinach Pockets
Experience the perfect blend of flavors with these delicate salmon and spinach pockets. A simple yet impressive meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cooked salmon, spinach leaves, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the mixture in the center of one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges with water, then fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Place pockets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get your kids to love salmon with these 20 delicious and kid-friendly recipes! From sweet treats like Honey Glazed Salmon Bites and Salmon Mac and Cheese, to savory options like Teriyaki Salmon Skewers and Panko-Crusted Salmon Nuggets, there’s something for every picky eater. Plus, many of these recipes hide veggies like broccoli or carrots in a way that kids won’t even notice. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a fun dinner, these salmon recipes are sure to please.