10 Easy Summer Salmon Recipes You Can Make in 30 Minutes

Top 10 Best Summer Salmon Recipes You Need to Try

When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite as refreshing and satisfying as a perfectly cooked salmon dish. Salmon’s light yet rich flavor, combined with its incredible versatility, makes it a must-have ingredient for summer cooking. Not to mention, it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any meal. 

From grilling perfection to no-cook delicacies, salmon can do it all! Below, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best summer salmon recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress your friends and family. 

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone just getting started, there’s a recipe for everyone on this list. Let’s start cooking!

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1. Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce 

Why You’ll Love It

This grilled salmon recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The tangy lemon and fresh dill enhance the natural taste of the salmon, while grilling adds a smoky, summer-inspired touch. It’s healthy, quick to prepare, and perfect for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to an outdoor barbecue with friends.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down if applicable. Cook for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon and drizzle with any remaining marinade. Garnish with extra fresh dill and lemon slices.

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2. Baked Teriyaki Salmon 

Why You’ll Love It
This Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will keep you coming back for more. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is as effortless as it is delicious!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce and stir until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the teriyaki sauce.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

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3. Salmon Burgers with Avocado Crema 

Why You’ll Love It
These Salmon Burgers with Avocado Crema are the perfect blend of flavor and health! Juicy, tender salmon patties paired with a rich, creamy avocado sauce make for a satisfying meal. They’re easy to make, packed with omega-3s, and perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Bonus: they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties:

• 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless, finely chopped or ground)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

For the Avocado Crema:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Burger Toppings:

• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomato
• Red onion rings
• Burger buns

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Patties:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Shape the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties.
2. Cook the Patties:
   • Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon patties and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Avocado Crema:
   • In a blender or food processor, blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Toast the buns if desired. Add a layer of lettuce to the bottom bun, followed by the salmon patty, a generous dollop of avocado crema, and your favorite toppings. Finish with the top bun.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately with a side of sweet potato fries, salad, or your favorite barbecue sides.

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4. Salmon Skewers with Summer Vegetables 

Why You’ll Love It
These Salmon Skewers with Summer Vegetables are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! They’re packed with fresh, vibrant flavors and are healthy to boot. Perfect for grilling season, they’re easy to prepare, super versatile, and ideal for both casual get-togethers and fancy summer dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon cubes in the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the salmon and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating for a colorful pattern.
4. Grill: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables have a slight char.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Pair with a side of rice, salad, or your favorite summer dip!

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5. Cold Salmon Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing 

Why You’ll Love It
This cold salmon salad is the perfect combination of light and satisfying. It’s packed with fresh veggies, protein-rich salmon, and a creamy yet tangy Greek yogurt dressing. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing summer dinner, or a healthy meal prep option, this salad has you covered. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of flavor!

Ingredients
For the salad:

• 2 cups of mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 cup cooked, chilled salmon (grilled, baked, or poached)

For the Greek yogurt dressing:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the salmon: Cook your salmon (grill, bake, or poach) and let it chill in the fridge. You can also use leftover salmon.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Add the chilled salmon and sprinkle with feta if desired.
4. Drizzle the dressing: Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, or serve it on the side.
5. Serve and enjoy: Divide into bowls and enjoy this refreshing, protein-packed meal!

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6. Smoked Salmon Pizza with Arugula 

Why You’ll Love It
This smoked salmon pizza with arugula is perfect for when you want a restaurant-quality dish at home. The smoky, savory salmon pairs beautifully with the fresh, peppery arugula, all atop a crispy crust. It’s light, flavorful, and ready in no time—ideal for pizza night with a gourmet touch!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough
• 1/2 cup crème fraîche or cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4-6 slices smoked salmon
• 1 cup fresh arugula
• 1/2 lemon (for garnish)
• Fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and prepare a baking sheet or pizza stone.
2. Spread the crème fraîche or cream cheese evenly over the pizza crust.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Layer the smoked salmon and fresh arugula on top.
6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pizza, garnish with dill if desired, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Slice and serve immediately!

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7. Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa 

Why You’ll Love It
These salmon tacos with mango salsa are the perfect mix of fresh, zesty, and satisfying. The flaky, seasoned salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy mango salsa, all tucked into warm tortillas. They’re quick to make, healthy, and feel like summer on a plate—perfect for weeknights or Taco Tuesday!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (skin removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced fresh mango
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 6 small tortillas (corn or flour)

Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil and season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook salmon in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat and break into large chunks.
3. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss to mix.
4. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Assemble tacos by layering salmon chunks and mango salsa on each tortilla. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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8. Pan-Seared Salmon with Strawberry-Balsamic Glaze 

Why You’ll Love It
This pan-seared salmon is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, thanks to the strawberry-balsamic glaze. It’s fresh, flavorful, and feels like summer on a plate. Plus, it’s quick to make and healthy, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add salmon, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir well and let simmer for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a glaze.
5. Spoon the glaze over the cooked salmon. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

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9. Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packets 

Why You’ll Love It
These salmon and asparagus foil packets are a game-changer for quick and healthy weeknight dinners. They’re simple to prepare, require minimal cleanup, and pack loads of flavor. Plus, the salmon stays perfectly tender, and the asparagus retains its crunch. It’s a foolproof, delicious one-pan meal!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil and place a salmon fillet in the center of each.
3. Divide the asparagus evenly between the packets, arranging it beside the salmon.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and asparagus, then sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Top each salmon fillet with 2-3 lemon slices.
6. Fold up the edges of the foil to seal the packets tightly, creating a pouch to lock in the steam.
7. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender.
8. Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

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10. Salmon Ceviche 

Why You’ll Love It
Salmon ceviche is the perfect no-cook dish that’s bursting with fresh, citrusy flavors. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and makes an elegant appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something light and refreshing, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed and diced into small cubes
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup orange juice (optional, for subtle sweetness)
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: diced avocado, mango, or cucumber for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Place diced salmon in a shallow bowl.
2. Pour the lime, lemon, and orange juice over the salmon, making sure it’s fully submerged. Let it marinate in the fridge for 15-20 minutes until the salmon turns opaque.
3. Add the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the marinated salmon. Gently mix everything together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. For extra flavor, fold in diced avocado, mango, or cucumber right before serving.
6. Serve chilled as an appetizer with tortilla chips or over crisp lettuce leaves.

Read More: Top 10 Summer Cake Recipes to Try This Season

Explore the Flavor of Summer

From smoky grilled salmon to ice-cold ceviche, these summer salmon recipes bring versatility, health benefits, and unbeatable flavors to your table. Each recipe is designed to make your summer meals simple, flavorful, and fun. 

Now, it’s your turn to bring these dishes to life in your kitchen. Which one will you try first? Share your thoughts and creations in the comments below! 

 

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