Salmon is one of the most popular fish for home cooks and chefs alike. Its rich, fatty texture makes it ideal for absorbing flavors from spices and seasonings. Knowing which spices to use can take your salmon from bland to spectacular.

When seasoning salmon there are a few key methods to keep in mind

• Season the salmon just before cooking. Don’t season too far in advance, as the salt can draw out moisture. Right before hitting the heat is best.

• Pat the salmon dry before seasoning The spices will stick better to the fish if it’s dry rather than wet and slimy.

• Season the salmon while it’s raw on both sides The seasonings will permeate the flesh more deeply when applied before cooking

• Use an even hand when seasoning. You want the spices distributed evenly so each bite is flavored.

Now that we’ve covered some best practices for seasoning salmon, let’s look at the all-star spices that will truly make your salmon shine:

Paprika

Paprika is one of the most versatile spices to use with salmon. The red powder provides a touch of heat along with a mix of sweet and earthy flavors. Smoked paprika is especially delicious with salmon, adding a tangy, barbecue-like taste.

Use about 1 teaspoon of paprika per pound of salmon. Rub it evenly over the fish before searing, baking, or grilling. The paprika will form a tasty crust while infusing the salmon with flavor.

Chile Powder

Chile powder is another excellent way to give salmon some heat. Various types like ancho, chipotle, and New Mexico add southwestern flair.

Use chile powder in the same way as paprika, at a rate of about 1 teaspoon per pound of fish. Sprinkle it over raw salmon fillets right before cooking. The chile powder gives a nice kick along with warm, earthy depth.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is a must for seasoning salmon. Along with salt, it’s a foundational flavor. The zing of garlic adds tons of aromatic flavor.

Use about 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder per pound of salmon. Combine it with salt before rubbing onto the fish. Garlic powder and salt will form a tasty crust while providing well-rounded seasoning.

Onion Powder

Like garlic, onion powder gives a flavor foundation. Its savory, sweet qualities balance well with salmon’s richness.

Use about 1/2 teaspoon per pound of fish. Mix with garlic powder, salt, pepper and any other spices you’re using to coat the salmon.

Ginger

Fresh ginger is excellent with salmon, but ground ginger is convenient and provides similar bright, peppery notes.

Use about 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger per pound of salmon. Combine with garlic powder, salt and other seasonings. The ginger’s lemony kick brightens up the salmon.

Cumin

Cumin is ideal for seasoning salmon with a Mexican or Southwestern flair. Its earthy, nutty flavor and subtle heat complement the fish wonderfully.

Use about 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin per pound of salmon. Sprinkle onto the fish along with garlic, salt and your choice of chile powder. The cumin adds incredible depth and warmth.

Dill

Fresh or dried dill has a natural affinity for salmon. Its distinctive tangy, herbal flavor cuts through the fish’s fattiness brilliantly.

Use about 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill per pound of salmon. Fold the feathery fronds into mayonnaise-based sauces for extra flavor. Or sprinkle dried dill over the fish before cooking or serving.

Lemon

Bright citrus flavors pair perfectly with rich salmon. Lemon juice and zest add freshness and acidity to balance the fish’s oils.

Use the juice and zest of 1 lemon per 2 pounds of salmon. Stir lemon juice into mayonnaise-dill sauces. Add lemon zest to dry rubs. Finish cooked salmon with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Black Pepper

No salmon seasoning blend is complete without black pepper. Its mild heat and pine-like aroma are essential.

Use about 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper per pound of salmon. Put it in all of your seasoning blends and rubs for the fish. The pepper adds a little kick and plenty of flavor.

Salt

Salt is absolutely crucial for properly seasoning salmon. Without it, the fish will taste flat and bland, no matter what other spices you use. Kosher salt provides the most even coverage and flavor distribution.

Use about 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt per pound of salmon. Make sure to salt the fish well on both sides before cooking. The salt amplifies all the other flavors.

Recommended Spice Combos for Salmon

Now that we’ve covered the best individual spices for salmon, here are some recommended combinations:

• Lemon Pepper – lemon zest, black pepper, salt

• Everything Bagel – garlic powder, onion powder, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, salt

• Mexican – cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, salt

• Spicy Creole – paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, salt

• Moroccan – cumin, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt

• Herb Crusted – dried basil, dried oregano, dried dill, garlic powder, salt

Complementary Ingredients for Salmon

In addition to spices, using fresh herbs and other flavorful ingredients can make your salmon extra delicious:

• Chopped parsley, cilantro or dill

• Sliced lemons or limes

• Soy sauce or teriyaki

• Hoisin or sriracha sauce

• Honey, pure maple syrup or brown sugar

• Fresh chopped garlic or ginger

• Sesame oil

• Pesto sauce

Conclusion

Salmon takes well to all kinds of warm spices, herbs and zesty ingredients. With the right seasonings, you can enjoy restaurant-quality salmon at home. All it takes is a simple rub or topping using ingredients like paprika, garlic, lemon and pepper.

Experiment with the salmon spice combinations until you find your favorites. The rich, fatty salmon can handle assertive flavors, so don’t be afraid to season it generously. With practice, you’ll be able to create tender, flaky salmon with a flavorful crust in no time.

Salmon is a versatile fish that pairs well with a wide range of flavors, including citrus, herbs, and even some sweet and savory notes.