Top Salmon Recipes: Creative Dishes from Food Network Chefs
Discover Food Network's top salmon recipes, showcasing versatile dishes from weeknight favorites to creative gourmet meals.
Top Salmon Recipes from Food Network Chefs
Salmon is one of the most versatile, delicious, and healthy fish to include on your menu. Beloved by home cooks and celebrated chefs alike, it lends itself to an array of preparations, from quick weeknight meals to impressive dinner party showstoppers. Food Network’s leading chefs reimagine salmon in vibrant salads, flavor-packed tacos, hearty burgers, and so much more. Below, explore creative spins and classic techniques across their top salmon recipes.
Recipe Gallery: Salmon Dishes for Every Occasion
- Lemony Salmon and Asparagus Salad
- Sheet Pan Blackened Salmon with Garlicky Kale
- Asian Grilled Salmon
- Slow-Roasted Salmon and Potatoes
- Salmon Teriyaki
- Crispy Blackened Salmon
- Roasted Salmon Tacos
- Cocoa Chile Rubbed Salmon with Rainbow Carrots
- Salmon Burgers
- Salmon Cakes
- Grilled Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Salmon with Lentils
- Salmon Kebabs with Yogurt Sauce
- Citrus Salmon Skewers
- Planked Everything Bagel Spiced Salmon
- Salmon & Veggie Grain Bowl
- Cured Salmon with Dill and Pernod
- Sambal Salmon Bowl
- Soy Molasses Salmon
- Smoked Salmon Benedict
- Salmon & Guacamole Sandwiches
- Cedar Plank Salmon
- Roasted Salmon with Sweet Potatoes & Broccolini
- Roasted Salmon Tacos
- Roasted Salmon Nicoise Platter
- Grilled Salmon
- Panko-Crusted Salmon
Why Choose Salmon?
Salmon is a nutrition powerhouse that offers ample health benefits and culinary flexibility:
- High-quality protein: Builds and repairs tissues.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Supports heart and brain health.
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.
- Low in saturated fat: Makes it a lean choice compared to many proteins.
- Easy to cook: Reacts well to grilling, broiling, baking, pan-searing, and more.
Featured Salmon Recipes
Lemony Salmon and Asparagus Salad
Fresh salmon fillets are pan-seared with lemon pepper, paired with delicate ribbons of asparagus tossed in olive oil, lemon zest, and herbed feta cheese. This dish stands out for its vibrant flavors, simplicity, and elegant presentation, making it both a great weeknight dinner and a showstopper at gatherings.
- Vegetable ribbons for delicate texture
- Herbed feta and citrus create layers of brightness
Sheet Pan Blackened Salmon with Garlicky Kale
A modern twist on classic blackened salmon, this sheet pan technique means minimal cleanup. Spiced salmon fillets roast beside kale tossed with garlic and olive oil, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition.
- Sheet pan method saves time
- Bold, smoky spices balance with fresh greens
Asian Grilled Salmon
This recipe uses a flavorful marinade that doubles as a glaze. Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs provide classic Asian notes that deeply infuse salmon with umami and vibrancy. Grill marks add smoky complexity.
- Marinade keeps fish moist and infused
- Serves well hot or cold, making leftovers easy
Slow-Roasted Salmon and Potatoes
Slow roasting gently cooks salmon to perfection, ensuring a moist center with a delicate flake. Yukon Gold potatoes round out the dish, absorbing drippings and flavors. Ideal for a comforting, hearty meal with minimal fuss.
- Low-heat method for perfect texture
- One-pan convenience
Salmon Teriyaki
Jet Tila’s version features a sweet-savory homemade teriyaki sauce, poured over pan-seared salmon. The sauce is cooked with care (pouring sake away from the flame), leaving a glossy finish. Serve over steamed rice or vegetables for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Sauce caramelizes beautifully
- Traditional Japanese flavors
Crispy Blackened Salmon
Perfect for fans of crispy textures, this blackened salmon is seared at high heat, forming a flavorful, crunchy crust while keeping the inside tender. Pair it with a bright, tangy sauce for balance.
- High-heat searing for crispness
- Great for salads, tacos, or bowls
Roasted Salmon Tacos
Salmon is quickly roasted and paired in soft tortillas with slaw, avocado, and a zesty sauce. This creative taco recipe brings a healthy spin to taco night, using salmon for extra protein and richness.
- Fast, healthy alternative to traditional tacos
- Customizable toppings
Cocoa Chile Rubbed Salmon with Rainbow Carrots
Jeff Mauro combines cocoa powder and chile for a deep, earthy rub on roast salmon, served alongside vibrantly colored carrots. This inventive pairing balances sweetness, heat, and umami.
- Unique flavor combination
- Visually appealing and nutritious
Salmon Burgers
Ree Drummond’s burgers utilize fresh salmon, mixed with breadcrumbs and herbs, pan-seared or grilled for an alternative to beef. Top with spicy mayo or slaw for crunch and flavor.
- Healthy twist on classic burgers
- Great for meal prep and lunchboxes
Salmon Cakes
Ina Garten’s salmon cakes are a classic favorite, blending salmon with seasonings and binding it lightly for pan-fried patties with a golden crust. Serve with remoulade or salad for a satisfying meal.
- Good use for leftover or canned salmon
- Budget-friendly and adaptable
Grilled Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze
Bobby Flay’s recipe elevates grilled salmon with a quick glaze combining brown sugar and spices. Caramelizing over high flames, the glaze forms a sweet crust locking in moisture.
- Perfect for cookouts and summer meals
- Pairs well with grilled vegetables
Salmon with Lentils
Ina Garten’s take pairs seared salmon fillets with earthy lentils, lightly seasoned and cooked until creamy. This dish is nutritious and offers a satisfying mix of textures.
- High-fiber, protein-rich combination
- Great make-ahead option
Salmon Around the World: Variations and Inspirations
- Salmon Kebabs with Yogurt Sauce: Mediterranean-style chunks of salmon grilled with herbs, finished with tangy yogurt dressing.
- Citrus Salmon Skewers: Fresh salmon threaded on skewers, marinated with citrus zest and juice, grilled for bright, fresh flavor.
- Planked Everything Bagel Spiced Salmon: Salmon fillets roasted on wood planks with bagel-inspired seasoning, delivering smoky, aromatic notes.
- Salmon & Veggie Grain Bowl: Nutritious bowls featuring roasted salmon, grains like quinoa or rice, and colorful roasted or raw veggies.
- Cured Salmon with Dill and Pernod: A nod to Scandinavian traditions, fresh salmon is cured with salt, sugar, dill, and Pernod for depth.
- Sambal Salmon Bowl: Rice bowls topped with spicy sambal-glazed salmon and fresh greens.
- Soy Molasses Salmon: A sticky, sweet, and savory glaze envelops roasted salmon fillets with Asian-inspired flavors.
- Smoked Salmon Benedict: A breakfast favorite, combining smoked salmon, poached eggs, and creamy hollandaise on an English muffin.
- Salmon & Guacamole Sandwiches: Creamy avocado and ripe tomatoes piled high with cooked salmon between soft bread.
- Cedar Plank Salmon: Cooking salmon on cedar planks imparts a distinctly smoky flavor, perfect for outdoor grilling.
- Roasted Salmon with Sweet Potatoes & Broccolini: Salmon fillets roasted with sweet potato wedges and broccolini for a complete meal.
- Roasted Salmon Nicoise Platter: Inspired by French cuisine, salmon replaces tuna on a classic Nicoise platter with potatoes, green beans, olives, and eggs.
- Panko-Crusted Salmon: Salmon coated in crispy Japanese breadcrumbs and baked for a crunchy exterior and moist interior.
Key Tips for Cooking Salmon
- Choose the right cut: Fillets are great for grilling and pan-searing, while steaks hold up well to roasting.
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. Remove from heat when it flakes easily but remains moist in the center.
- Season generously: Fat in salmon carries flavors well, so don’t shy away from herbs, spices, marinades, and glazes.
- Get creative with sides: Pair with grains, greens, roasted vegetables, or zesty sauces for balance.
- Try international spices: Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin flavors complement salmon.
| Recipe Name | Main Flavor Profile | Cooking Method | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemony Salmon & Asparagus Salad | Bright, fresh, herby | Pan-seared | 20 min |
| Sheet Pan Blackened Salmon | Smoky, garlic | Roasted | 30 min |
| Asian Grilled Salmon | Umami, ginger, herbs | Grilled | 25 min |
| Slow-Roasted Salmon & Potatoes | Comforting, earthy | Roasted | 40 min |
| Roasted Salmon Tacos | Zesty, creamy | Roasted | 25 min |
| Salmon Burgers | Savory, herbaceous | Pan-seared/Grilled | 30 min |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the healthiest way to prepare salmon?
A: Roasting, grilling, and baking all preserve nutrients with minimal added fat. Avoid deep frying or heavy cream sauces for the healthiest result.
Q: How can I tell when salmon is cooked?
A: Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in the center, but it should still be moist. Overcooking can dry it out.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for these recipes?
A: Yes, frozen salmon works well. Thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper texture and flavor absorption.
Q: What sides go best with salmon?
A: Roasted vegetables, grain salads, potatoes, leafy greens, and tangy sauces all complement salmon’s rich flavor.
Q: How do I avoid salmon sticking to the pan?
A: Preheat the pan with a bit of oil until shimmering, then add the salmon. Let it sear undisturbed initially, then flip gently.
Creative Salmon Recipe Variations
- Mix up herbs and spices: Try dill, parsley, cilantro, or chives for freshness.
- Switch marinades: Experiment with teriyaki, citrus, BBQ, or Mediterranean mixtures.
- Opt for global presentations: Tacos, grain bowls, sandwiches, and salads are popular chef-approved approaches.
- Use leftovers: Flaked cooked salmon is perfect for patties, salads, and breakfast dishes like benedicts.
- For smoke and aroma: Use wood planks (cedar, maple) or liquid smoke to amplify flavor.
Pro Tips from Food Network Chefs
- Let the grill do the work: Don’t move salmon too soon—allow grill marks to develop naturally.
- Pour sauces away from flame: Safety is critical, especially with alcohol-based glazes.
- Finish with citrus: Lemon or orange zest brightens any finished salmon dish.
- Balance texture and flavor: Combine crisp vegetables, creamy dressings, and spicy rubs for complex bites.
Versatile, Balanced, and Flavorful
Food Network chefs show that salmon can be the centerpiece of nearly any meal. Whether you seek classic grilled preparations, inspired world cuisines, or inventive fusions (like salmon tacos or burgers), salmon adapts effortlessly. With its nutritional benefits and dynamic flavor profile, it remains a perennial favorite for home cooks. Try new spices, experiment with side dishes, and savor salmon in its many forms.
