37+ Healthy Salmon Recipes To Try

Salmon is one of the most versatile sources of protein you can bring into your kitchen. Whether you prefer bold spices, bright citrus glazes or comforting creamy sauces, these healthy salmon recipes will fit any craving and occasion. 

Salmon works beautifully in different styles of cooking (including broiled, grilled, baked, air-fried or pan-seared) so you can pick the method that best fits your schedule. With options ranging from quick weeknight dinners to impressive entrées for special guests, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to bring variety and flavor into your meal rotation.

1. Honey baked salmon

The sweet golden honey glaze in this dish caramelizes beautifully in the oven and highlights the natural richness of the salmon. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for healthy baked salmon recipes that are simple but impressive. It also makes a smart option for meal prep: Bake a larger filet and enjoy portions over a few days, paired with salads, wild rice or roasted vegetables.

2. Garlic butter salmon

Garlic and butter unite in a rich, aromatic sauce that enhances salmon’s savory qualities without overpowering it. Since it comes together quickly in one pan, it’s a favorite when you need a flavorful but low-effort meal. Garnish with parsley and pair with steamed broccoli and a side of roasted potatoes for a simple, healthy salmon recipe for dinner that feels comforting yet balanced.

3. Caribbean jerk salmon

If you love bold spices, this salmon recipe is a must-try. It’s bursting with smoky, peppery jerk seasoning. Fresh lime juice or a side of pineapple chunks can create a nice contrast. Pair it with coconut rice, black beans and a sliced mango salad for a tropical-inspired spread that works just as well for weeknights as it does for entertaining.

4. Honey garlic salmon

A winning balance of sweet and savory, this honey garlic glaze gives your salmon a sticky, flavorful coating. Simultaneously comforting and light, it’s best paired with jasmine rice or stir-fried veggies. If you’re cooking for a dinner party, the glossy finish looks beautiful on the plate, but the leftovers also work well for lunch the next day.

5. Crispy air fryer salmon with lemon pepper

Air fryers create a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon filet flaky and tender inside. A sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning adds zest and brightness, giving this recipe a refreshing edge compared to heavier sauces. It’s perfect for speedy weeknight meals when you want something both healthy and satisfying.

Looking for more air fryer salmon recipes? Here are our favorites:

• Crispy air fryer salmon
• Air-fried salmon with lemon dill

6. Broiled salmon with lemon herb butter

Broiling salmon intensifies flavor while also ensuring a quick cook time. The lemon herb butter in this recipe melts into the fish, giving it a savory richness alongside bright citrus. Serve with asparagus and quinoa for a balanced plate if you’re looking for healthy salmon recipes for weight loss.

7. Grilled salmon with lemon garlic sauce

Need a centerpiece for your summertime grilling session? Try this salmon recipe with smoky depth and fresh brightness thanks to the lemon garlic sauce. It pairs nicely with a side salad or veggie skewers, or as part of a grain bowl topped with avocado.

8. Grilled salmon foil packets

If you need easy baked salmon recipes, look no further. Foil packet cooking keeps your salmon juicy while locking in herbs and seasonings. Plus, cleanup is minimal since the foil packet can go straight from grill to plate!

9. Grilled salmon tacos with mango salsa

Flaky grilled salmon teams up with bright, juicy mango salsa in a tortilla to create a colorful and refreshing meal. Top the tacos with avocado and cabbage slaw for extra crunch. This dish is fun for weeknight dinners with the family or casual weekend entertaining. You can also repurpose leftovers for leftover salmon tacos.

10. Salmon filet with dill sauce

This recipe creates a comforting entrée with light herbal flavors. Dill’s fresh flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of salmon. Serve with a dry white wine, roasted carrots and boiled potatoes for a classic, balanced meal. For additional flavor, add some capers to the sauce while it simmers.

11. Salmon pate

This light and creamy salmon pate is easy to prepare. Made with fresh salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice and aromatic herbs, it’s an ideal spread for gatherings or quick snacks at home. Add smoked paprika for an extra kick. Serve it as an appetizer with whole-grain crackers and sliced cucumber or as part of an elegant brunch board.

12. Veggie and salmon stir-fry

Tender salmon filets and fresh mixed vegetables come together in this flexible and quick stir-fry. The colorful dish features a savory, aromatic sauce. Serve it over brown rice or quinoa and make sure to use a non-stick wok or pan to prevent your salmon from sticking.

13. One-pot cream of salmon

Fresh dill and savory broth with a touch of rich cream create classic comfort in this creamy salmon soup. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it the perfect fall soup for weeknights or chilly evenings. Serve it as a main course with bread and salad, or prep servings ahead to add variety to a healthy meal plan. For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

14. Salmon pasta with spinach

This dish pairs flaky salmon with spinach and pasta in a light, creamy sauce. The flavor combo is perfect for families looking for a healthier spin on pasta night. Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper and a touch of lemon zest for extra flair.

15. Salmon croquettes

Crisp outside and tender inside, these salmon croquettes use pantry staple ingredients to whip up an easy, protein-packed meal. Enjoy them as a main dish alongside a leafy salad or as mini appetizers for parties. They’re perfect for batch prepping so you can freeze extras for a quick lunch or snack anytime.

16. Puff pastry salmon Wellington with feta and spinach

An impressive dish for dinner parties or special family meals, this salmon Wellington wraps filets, creamy feta and vibrant spinach in golden puff pastry. Each slice offers a mix of buttery, crisp texture and delicate, savory filling. Serve with roasted asparagus or a simple green salad to round out an elegant menu.

17. Avocado toast with smoked salmon

For a bright and nourishing breakfast or light lunch, layer avocado, cream cheese and smoked salmon on toast and finish with crisp radishes. Lemon juice and fresh herbs add a lively kick. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable: Top with a soft-boiled egg or microgreens, or try everything bagel seasoning, feta and capers for more flavor.

18. Creamy salmon filets

This recipe keeps things simple but comforting. Creamy sauce and salmon make an irresistible pair, while herbs and garlic add depth. Stir in spinach or mushrooms for an extra serving of veggies. Serve over whole-grain pasta or steamed rice to soak up every drop of the sauce, and you’ve got yourself a perfect family dinner. For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk. 

19. Citrus-glazed salmon filet

A citrus glaze brings fresh, tangy brightness to salmon, counterbalancing its rich flavor in this elegant recipe. It’s ideal for guests or a vibrant weeknight meal. Pair with a light grain salad or roasted broccoli and garnish with orange or grapefruit slices for a stunning plate.

20. Cracker-crusted salmon patties

These patties use crushed crackers for a crunchy texture and savory flavor, making them an excellent choice for lunch boxes or picnics. Satisfying and easy to make, they’re a nice option for busy days when you want a light but filling dish. For a gluten-free modification, replace the crackers with gluten-free versions or swap them for almond meal.

If you’re a fan of these salmon patties, try out these variations:

• Old-fashioned salmon patties
• Salmon patties

21. Firecracker salmon

Turn up the heat and enjoy an explosion of flavor with this grilled salmon filet coated in a spicy-sweet glaze. It’s quick to prep, ideal for when you’re craving something bold and memorable. Serve with creamy slaw or a simple cucumber salad to cool the palate.

22. Pecan-crusted salmon

This recipe features a layer of chopped pecans that crisps as the salmon bakes, adding a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. It’s the perfect dinner party dish or weeknight meal that feels special but requires little effort. For extra crunchiness, toast the pecans before chopping them.

23. Brown sugar salmon

In this subtly sweet dish, brown sugar forms a caramelized crust as the salmon roasts, intensifying its natural savoriness. Try it with garlic green beans and a scoop of wild rice for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want to keep on rotation.

24. Maple-glazed salmon

Maple syrup and Dijon mustard create a sticky-sweet glaze that perfectly complements the richness of the fish in this salmon dish. Pair it with roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for a fall-inspired healthy salmon dinner sure to impress your family and friends.

25. Honey mustard-glazed salmon

This tender and flavorful salmon is covered in a balanced glaze that hits all the right notes: sweet, tangy and savory. Serve over a spinach salad or alongside brown rice and you’ve got a fast, high-protein meal for busy evenings.

26. Honey sesame glazed salmon

With soy sauce, ginger, honey and toasted sesame, this East Asian-inspired recipe brings the perfect blend of sweet and savory to your table. Reserve some of the marinade to baste just after broiling, then sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve with steamed edamame or rice noodles.

27. Honey-glazed salmon with citrus salsa

This recipe balances sweet honey with a chunky salsa of orange, lemon and lime for a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. It’s a zesty option for a spring lunch or summer meal enjoyed on the patio.

28. Bright salmon bowl with ginger dressing

The vibrant, nutrient-packed bowl features succulent salmon served over a bed of hearty brown rice or quinoa, crisp kale, cucumber and shredded red cabbage. Creamy avocado and toasted sesame seeds complete the bowl for satisfying flavor and texture. Drizzle with a zesty ginger dressing to add warmth and tang. It’s the perfect pick for lunch or dinner, offering a lively mix of protein and nourishing veggies.

29. Teriyaki-glazed salmon with pineapple fried rice

This adventurous fusion dish brings together sticky-sweet teriyaki salmon and savory pineapple fried rice for a meal that’s both tropical and comforting. Garnish with finely chopped cilantro for restaurant-ready presentation. It’s a great pick for adding some variety to your “healthy salmon recipes for dinner” routine.

30. Teriyaki salmon bowls with rice and broccoli

A salmon bowl is an endlessly customizable high-protein option for lunch or dinner. This version pairs juicy teriyaki salmon with steamed broccoli and fluffy rice for a convenient yet filling meal. Sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for added flavor.

Other delicious recipes for salmon bowls include:

• Teriyaki-glazed salmon rice bowls with mango salsa
• Teriyaki salmon rice bowls with steamed vegetables

31. Baked salmon with asparagus

This simple sheet pan meal combines salmon and asparagus for a low-mess, high-reward dinner. Both ingredients roast together, so all you need to do is season and bake. For added flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

32. Baked frozen salmon

No time to thaw? No problem. This recipe shows you how to bake salmon straight from frozen, keeping things practical for busy schedules. A homemade lemon dill sauce adds a finish of freshness, making this a reliable addition to your list of easy baked salmon recipes.

33. Cedar plank salmon with lemon dill sauce

Grilling salmon on a cedar plank, a technique often used by the Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest, infuses it with a subtle woodsy aroma while maintaining moisture. Lemon dill sauce enhances the dish with a complex blend of smoky and tangy flavors. It’s an ideal choice for summer cookouts or a special family meal.

34. Pan-fried salmon with lemon butter sauce

Quickly cooking this succulent salmon in a hot skillet allows it to develop a crisp skin. Simmering with minced garlic and chicken broth packs in additional flavors and complexity. Finish it off with tangy lemon butter and serve with white wine, sautéed spinach and a side of roasted potatoes for a classic dinnertime delight.

35. Savory soy sauce salmon

A savory soy sauce marinade keeps this salmon dish moist and flavorful with notes of ginger, garlic and green onions. For an even richer taste, add toasted sesame oil to the marinade. Pair with jasmine rice and steamed bok choy for a relaxed weekend dinner or a quick meal during busy weekdays.

36. Cast iron salmon with lemon herb butter

Cooking salmon in a cast iron pan gives it a nice golden sear while intensifying its flavor. Lemon herb butter melts over the top, perfectly blending citrus and fresh herbs. Try it with sautéed green beans or a hearty grain salad for a delicious dinner you’ll want to recreate again and again.

37. Steamed salmon with lemon herb sauce

Steaming is a gentle way to cook salmon, preserving its tender flake. This recipe features a Mediterranean-inspired tangy lemon herb sauce for a dish that feels light and fresh. It’s a great low-fuss addition to your rotation of healthy salmon recipes for weight loss, especially when served alongside greens or quinoa.

Cooking salmon FAQ

Now that you’ve gone through this roundup of delicious salmon recipes, here are answers to some common questions about preparing them.

What are the five types of salmon?

The five main varieties of Pacific salmon are:Chinook (King)Coho (Silver)Sockeye (Red)PinkChumAtlantic salmon is another species, but in North America it is typically farm-raised rather than wild-caught.

Is salmon healthy?

Yes, salmon is naturally rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for balanced diets. It fits into apaleo meal plan, can be incorporated as a keto diet protein source and works well in any pescatarian dish.

What is the best temperature for baking salmon?

The recommended temperature range for baking salmon is 375°F to 400°F. This range ensures the fish will cook evenly while still keeping it flaky and moist. If you’re baking individually portioned filets, 10 to 15 minutes at 400°F works best. For a larger serving of salmon, try 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F.

How do I know when salmon is done baking?

The USDA recommends cooking all fish to an internal temperature of 145°F for food safety. The best way to check salmon for doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. The flesh should flake easily with a fork and be slightly opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

What do I pair with salmon?

Grain bases like quinoa or rice, along with steamed or roasted vegetables, side salads or edamame, pair well with salmon. Seasonings like dill, garlic, citrus or soy-based sauces are also great complements.

What wine pairs well with salmon?

A crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc or chardonnay enhances lighter salmon dishes. For richer or spicier recipes, a red wine like a light pinot noir is a great match.

How can I meal prep salmon bowls?

Cook your salmon filets in advance and pair them with pre-cooked bases like rice or quinoa, plus sliced veggies like cucumbers, edamame or peppers. Store the ingredients separately so you can quickly assemble the bowls during the week.

How do I store and reheat salmon?

Refrigerate salmon within two hours of cooking. Salmon can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To avoid drying it out, reheat it gently in the oven at 300°F or in an air fryer.

Enjoy fresh salmon from Instacart

Along with sides like grains, vegetables and herbs, salmon sets the perfect foundation for balanced meals. With so many healthy salmon recipes to try, you can enjoy everything from zesty grilled filets to cozy baked dishes.

Salmon also works well for batch cooking; just prep ahead for a quickpaleo lunch idea or toss together a colorful bowl for aneasy weeknight dinner option. Learn more about the best types ofbaked fish to further expand your weekly menu.Order groceries through Instacart to streamline your shopping and spend more time enjoying what you cook.