When it comes to cooking, few ingredients are as versatile or delicious as Sockeye salmon. With its rich flavor and firm texture, this type of salmon is perfect for a wide range of dishes – from simple weeknight meals to impressive dinner parties. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option, a satisfying lunch, or a romantic dinner for two, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delectable Sockeye salmon recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore the diverse world of Sockeye salmon cooking, from classic grilled and baked dishes to more adventurous options like tacos and sushi. We’ll also provide you with some unique twists on traditional recipes, such as a maple-glazed version with roasted vegetables or a smoky dip with fresh herbs.
So whether you’re a seafood lover, a health-conscious foodie, or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we invite you to dive into the world of Sockeye salmon and discover new flavors and ideas. In the next section, we’ll start with our top 10 recipes for every occasion.
Grilled Sockeye Salmon with Lemon-Dill Butter
Experience the bright flavors of the Pacific Northwest with this simple yet impressive recipe that pairs the richness of sockeye salmon with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, and chopped dill until well combined.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place salmon on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of cooking, spread a tablespoon of lemon-dill butter onto each fillet.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Maple-Glazed Sockeye Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring pan-seared sockeye salmon glazed with pure Canadian maple syrup and paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of each fillet.
4. Place sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, and red bell pepper on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Pan-sear salmon fillets in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve glazed salmon atop roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Sockeye Salmon with Garlic Herb Sauce
Experience the rich flavor of wild-caught Sockeye salmon paired with a bright and savory garlic herb sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to skillet and sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine garlic, parsley, dill, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
5. Serve pan-seared salmon with garlic herb sauce spooned over the top.
6. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
A flavorful fusion of grilled salmon, crunchy slaw, and creamy crema, these tacos are a twist on traditional Mexican fare. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Slaw: 1 cup red cabbage, 1/2 cup carrot, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper
– Avocado Lime Crema: 3 ripe avocados, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 tsp honey, salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled salmon onto tortillas, topping with slaw and crema.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Sockeye Salmon with Honey Mustard Glaze
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist baked salmon dish, perfectly glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Sockeye Salmon Dip with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your party or gathering with this rich and flavorful dip, showcasing the smoky goodness of sockeye salmon paired with fresh herbs. Perfect for crackers, veggies, or chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) package smoked sockeye salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flaked salmon, sour cream, Dijon mustard, dill, chives, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in a snap.
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Sockeye Salmon Dip with Fresh Herbs!
Sockeye Salmon Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
This recipe combines the freshness of Sockeye salmon with the nutty flavor of sesame, all wrapped up in a bowl. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Sockeye salmon, sashimi-grade
– 1/2 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds for garnish
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
Instructions:
1. Cut the salmon into small cubes and place in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salmon and toss to coat.
4. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the bowls by placing a scoop of cooked rice, diced cucumber, and diced carrots on the bottom.
6. Top with the sesame-dressed salmon and garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cedar-Plank Sockeye Salmon with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your salmon game with this elegant and flavorful dish, featuring the rich flavors of cedar wood and bourbon glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 Sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup cedar planks (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
– Bourbon Glaze:
+ 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
+ 1/4 cup honey
+ 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
+ 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place a cedar plank on each salmon fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon is cooking, prepare the Bourbon Glaze by whisking together all ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Remove the salmon from the oven and brush with the Bourbon Glaze.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful Sockeye Salmon Cakes, perfectly balanced by a tangy and creamy Lemon Aioli. A simple yet impressive appetizer or main course that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
For the salmon cakes:
– 1 pound cooked Sockeye salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced clove garlic
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, garlic, lemon juice, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Lemon Aioli by mixing all ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve salmon cakes with a dollop of Lemon Aioli on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Sockeye Salmon Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the richness of teriyaki sauce with the omega-3 benefits of sockeye salmon, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tbsp of water. Set aside.
3. Add 1 tsp sesame oil to the preheated skillet. Cook salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tsp sesame oil. Cook mixed vegetables and garlic for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Pour teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables.
6. Return cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and toss to coat with teriyaki sauce and vegetables.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Sockeye Salmon with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of mango salsa, perfect for a summer evening dinner. Pan-seared to perfection, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season salmon fillets with the mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a bowl. Squeeze lime juice over the top and stir gently.
7. Serve blackened salmon with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavor of Sockeye salmon with the sweetness of corn and smokiness of bacon, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Sockeye salmon fillet, skin removed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup of fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the Sockeye salmon fillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Add the corn kernels, fish stock, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the chowder for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Crusted Sockeye Salmon with Lemon Butter
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and herbs, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over each fillet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the herbs and sprinkle with lemon zest.
6. Dot the top of each fillet with softened butter and squeeze a small amount of lemon juice over it.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Sushi Rolls with Spicy Mayo
Experience the rich flavor of sockeye salmon in a delicious sushi roll, elevated by the spicy kick of homemade mayo. This recipe is perfect for sushi enthusiasts looking to add some excitement to their traditional rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 Sockeye salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (see below)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut nori seaweed sheet into desired size for roll.
3. Place a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Add sliced avocado and flaked salmon on top of the rice.
5. Roll using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with spicy mayo for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Sockeye Salmon with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Sockeye Salmon with Balsamic Glaze: A flavorful and impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the salmon is cooking, heat the balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over low heat.
7. Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and brush with the warm balsamic glaze.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of sockeye salmon with a tangy and zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked sockeye salmon, flaked
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cilantro.
2. Top with flaked salmon and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle citrus vinaigrette over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Burgers with Sriracha Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this recipe that combines the rich flavor of sockeye salmon with a spicy kick from sriracha aioli. These burgers are perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sockeye salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Sriracha aioli (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together salmon, panko breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, lemon juice, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve on a hamburger bun with sriracha aioli, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings.
Sriracha Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Poached Sockeye Salmon with White Wine Sauce
This elegant recipe showcases the rich flavor of sockeye salmon paired with a light and creamy white wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. With minimal preparation time, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large skillet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, leaving space between each.
4. Pour the white wine into the skillet, making sure the fish is covered.
5. Bring the wine to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
7. Reduce the wine sauce by half, then whisk in butter, garlic, and heavy cream.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the poached salmon with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sockeye Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packets
A delicious and easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavor of sockeye salmon with the tender crunch of asparagus, all wrapped up in a flavorful foil packet.
Ingredients:
– 4 sockeye salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into large squares.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each square, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Add 1/4 cup asparagus tips on top of the salmon, followed by a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil squares into packets, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sockeye Salmon Ceviche with Fresh Lime and Cilantro
This refreshing ceviche recipe showcases the bold flavor of sockeye salmon, perfectly balanced by the brightness of fresh lime juice and the warmth of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sockeye salmon fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon pieces, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious Sockeye salmon recipes! From classic grilled dishes to innovative tacos and sushi rolls, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at Pan-Seared Sockeye Salmon with Garlic Herb Sauce or Maple-Glazed Sockeye Salmon with Roasted Vegetables. Or, go bold with Smoked Sockeye Salmon Dip or Cedar-Plank Sockeye Salmon with Bourbon Glaze. Whatever your taste buds desire, these mouth-watering recipes are sure to impress!
