Introduction
Salmon is a delicious and nutritious fish that can be cooked a variety of ways. However, the key to making a delicious salmon dish is seasoning it properly. Whether you prefer spicy, savory or sweet seasonings, there are many ways to elevate that classic salmon flavor. In this article, we’ll provide 5 simple, healthy, and gourmet seasoning ideas for your salmon recipes to make them even more amazing, as well as tips for beginners and suggestions for seasoning based on the cooking method.
5 Simple Salmon Seasoning Ideas to Elevate Your Meal
If you’re looking for specific flavors to pair with your salmon, these 5 ideas are a great starting point:
Cajun seasoning
Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices that can give your salmon a bold, slightly spicy flavor. To use Cajun seasoning on your salmon, pat it dry with a paper towel, sprinkle the seasoning liberally over the fish, and then bake or grill it, the same way you would with other seasonings
Lemon-dill seasoning
Lemon-dill seasoning is a classic pairing with salmon that works wonderfully. To achieve this flavor profile, combine lemon zest, chopped fresh dill, olive oil, salt and pepper in a bowl. Smear the mixture over the salmon, then cook it using the cooking method of your choice.
Honey mustard glaze
A honey mustard glaze makes salmon sweet and tangy, while also perfectly complementing its natural flavors. To prepare this seasoning, combine honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Then, brush the mixture over the salmon before cooking it in the oven
Garlic and herb seasoning
A garlic and herb seasoning adds aroma and depth to salmon. To use garlic and herb seasoning on your fish, mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Season the salmon with the mixture and then cook it on the grill or in the oven.
Maple and soy sauce glaze
If you’re looking for a sweet and savory flavor, then a mixture of maple syrup and soy sauce might be exactly what you need. Combine the two ingredients along with minced garlic and ginger, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Spread the mixture generously over your salmon, then broil it until the glaze caramelizes and bubbles.
A Beginner’s Guide to Seasoning Salmon
If you’re new to cooking salmon and looking for guidance on how to season it properly, these tips can help:
Use the right portion size
The ideal portion size for salmon is 4-6 ounces per person, depending on your appetite. Make sure not to overcrowd your salmon in the pan or grill, as it can lead to unevenly cooked and gooey fish.
Season it evenly
Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel and sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the fish. Make sure to cover both sides of the salmon, as well as the edges, for the best results.
Allow it to marinate
If you have the time, let your salmon sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking it. This can allow the flavors to develop, and result in fish that’s more tender and delicious.
Healthy Seasoning Ideas for Salmon
If you’re health-conscious but still want to enjoy flavorful salmon, these healthy seasoning ideas can be perfect:
Rosemary seasoning
Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as mental and digestive benefits. To use rosemary seasoning on your salmon, mix chopped rosemary with lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture onto the salmon and cook it using the cooking method that you prefer.
Turmeric and ginger seasoning
Turmeric, a glowing spice, is rich in antioxidants that can help to fight inflammation, while ginger’s active ingredient can ease digestive discomfort. To prepare this seasoning, mix minced ginger and turmeric with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture onto the fish and cook it to your liking using the cooking method of your choice.
Gourmet Salmon Seasoning Ideas You Haven’t Tried
If you want to experiment with something new, these gourmet seasoning ideas might prove to be exactly what you need:
Smoked paprika seasoning
Smoked paprika is a bold and smoky seasoning that can take your salmon to another level. Mix smoked paprika with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the mixture over the fish before cooking it for a delicious aroma and taste.
Truffle-infused salt seasoning
The truffle-infused salt can add an earthy flavor to your salmon. Simply season both sides of the fish with truffle-infused salt and pepper to taste. Then, cook it as you would other salmon dishes.
Salmon Seasoning Ideas Based on Cooking Method
Depending on the cooking method, different seasoning blends work best:
Grilling
For grilling, a bold dry rub, like the Cajun blend, works great. Mix the seasoning blend in a small bowl and then press it onto the salmon, before placing it on a hot grill. As a result, you’ll get a nice crispy exterior and a juicy interior;
Baking
Baking salmon is the perfect cooking method for seasonings like honey mustard or maple and soy glaze. When baking, spread the mixture generously over the salmon and then bake it uncovered in the oven until cooked through.
Conclusion
Seasoning your salmon properly is a simple but effective way to elevate your meal’s flavor profile. With these 5 simple, healthy, and gourmet seasoning ideas, as well as tips for beginners and suggestions for seasoning based on the cooking method, you can now offer your taste buds a buttery, delicious salmon dish. If you’ve enjoyed this article, don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments. Share your own favorite salmon seasoning ideas or any mouth-watering salmon experiences you’ve had.