Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next special occasion? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering salmon dinner recipes! Salmon is a popular choice for many occasions, from romantic dinners to family gatherings, due to its rich flavor and numerous health benefits. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or innovative and adventurous, this list has got you covered.
From baked salmon with asparagus to grilled salmon with quinoa, these recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures to suit every taste. And don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned cook – many of these recipes are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients. So go ahead, get inspired, and start cooking up some amazing salmon dishes for your next special occasion!
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Asparagus
A flavorful and healthy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and salt.
5. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Arrange the asparagus spears alongside the salmon.
7. Drizzle with the remaining garlic butter mixture.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Roast the vegetables of your choice on a separate baking sheet with 1-2 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and spread out in a single layer.
5. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Serve the glazed salmon with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
6. Serve grilled salmon with cooked quinoa and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Dill Salmon Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish featuring succulent salmon, tangy dill, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 lb. salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– 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. Reserve.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add salmon fillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In the same pan, add chopped dill and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, salmon fillet, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Stir-Fried Rice
This classic Japanese-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with the simplicity of stir-fried rice, perfectly complementing the delicate taste of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce and 2 tablespoons water.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish, brush with Teriyaki mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While salmon cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
6. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine cooked rice with vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve Teriyaki salmon atop stir-fried rice, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Crusted Salmon with Mashed Potatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto and salmon with the comfort of mashed potatoes, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– Butter or cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and panko breadcrumbs. Divide the mixture evenly among the salmon fillets, pressing gently onto the fish to adhere.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the salmon is baking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk or half-and-half until smooth.
8. Serve mashed potatoes alongside the pesto crusted salmon. Add butter or cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Mustard Salmon with Sweet Potatoes
This sweet and savory dish combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard, perfectly paired with roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple-mustard mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato cubes and season with salt and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on another baking sheet.
5. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Salmon Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the richness of blackened salmon with the creaminess of avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
For the blackened salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the avocado salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the blackening mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve blackened salmon in tacos with avocado salsa, topped with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cedar Plank Smoked Salmon with Herbs
Elevate your salmon game with this aromatic and flavorful dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cedar plank (12″ x 6″)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
3. Place the cedar plank on a flat surface. Brush both sides with olive oil.
4. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Place one fillet on each plank, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
6. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the salmon.
7. Top with chopped rosemary and thyme.
8. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C).
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Salmon en Papillote with Lemon and Herbs
A flavorful and moist salmon dish baked in parchment paper with a zesty lemon-herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of parchment paper (large enough for the salmon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a salmon fillet on each piece of parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Fold the parchment paper to create a sealed package.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, opening the parchment paper at the table.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Salmon with Garlic Green Beans
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the spiciness of sriracha and the crunch of garlic green beans.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together Sriracha sauce and olive oil.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, steam green beans in a steamer basket until tender.
8. In a small skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
9. Toss green beans with garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve salmon with garlic green beans and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
Salmon Risotto with Parmesan and Peas: A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of salmon, the creaminess of risotto, and the sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the flaked salmon, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe combines the rich flavor of balsamic glaze with the simplicity of roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious and healthy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the balsamic glaze all over the fish.
4. Roast Brussels sprouts: Toss sprouts with garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Cook salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salmon Piccata with Capers and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this classic Italian-inspired dish, featuring succulent salmon fillets seared to perfection and served in a rich white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet; sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove salmon from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tbsp butter, garlic, capers, white wine, and chicken broth.
6. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve salmon fillets with the White Wine Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Salmon with Jasmine Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut curry sauce with the tender flavor of salmon, served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, combine coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add salmon fillets to the curry sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve salmon atop jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Salmon Salad with Mango and Avocado
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of grilled salmon, ripe mango, and creamy avocado, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, and diced avocado.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Place grilled salmon on top of the salad and serve immediately.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, sweet corn, and tender salmon, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen salmon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the salmon, corn kernels, chicken broth, and cooked bacon back into the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Salmon Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled salmon and roasted bell peppers with nutty quinoa for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. Grill the salmon fillet for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool and flake into small pieces.
4. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked quinoa, chopped onion, garlic, and flaked salmon. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salmon and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A flavorful twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines the richness of salmon with the nuttiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine salmon, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the salmon-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Glazed Salmon with Bok Choy
Miso Glazed Salmon with Bok Choy Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the rich flavors of miso glaze with the tender crispness of bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups bok choy, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the salmon is cooking, heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add chopped bok choy and cook until tender and slightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the miso glazed salmon with sautéed bok choy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover these mouthwatering salmon dinner recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic flavors to innovative twists, this collection offers something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Asparagus, Honey Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables, or Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon with Quinoa. Or, indulge in Creamy Dill Salmon Pasta, Teriyaki Salmon with Stir-Fried Rice, or Pesto Crusted Salmon with Mashed Potatoes. These recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.