What is a Good Seasoning for Salmon? A Guide to Enhancing Salmon’s Natural Flavor

Salmon is one of the most popular and commonly consumed fish It’s rich, fatty texture and mild flavor make it appealing to a wide range of palates. However, salmon can often benefit from additional seasoning to really make its natural flavor shine The right spices and herbs can take your salmon from bland to spectacular.

So what are the best seasonings for salmon? There are many delicious options but some great spices to start with are

• Paprika
• Chile/Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cumin
• Ginger
• Dill
• Lemon

These ingredients add flavor complexity while complementing salmon’s rich, oily meat. Let’s take a closer look at each one and why it works well with salmon.

Paprika

Paprika is made from ground dried peppers and provides a mild heat along with a sweet, smoky flavor. It brings out the natural richness of the salmon while adding a pop of flavor. Spanish paprika, in particular, has a fantastic flavor that pairs perfectly with salmon.

Sprinkle salmon generously with paprika before baking, grilling or pan searing. The heat of the pan or oven will release the oils in the paprika, infusing the salmon with its aroma and taste.

Chile/Chili Powder

Like paprika, chile powder adds a touch of heat and smokiness. Ancho and chipotle chile powders are especially tasty with salmon. The subtle spiciness enhances the fish’s natural fattiness.

Try making a spicy salmon rub by combining 2 tablespoons chili powder with brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder and salt. Coat the salmon with the rub before cooking. The sweet and spicy coating caramelizes beautifully.

Garlic Powder

Garlic is a salmon’s best friend. The pungent, aromatic flavor boosts the savory umami taste of the fish. Garlic powder seasons the salmon without overpowering it.

Simply sprinkle garlic powder onto salmon portions just before cooking. Add a pinch of salt to really make the garlic pop.

Onion Powder

Like garlic, onion brings out the savory qualities of salmon. Onion powder adds a touch of earthy sweetness and another layer of flavor.

Mix onion powder with lemon, parsley, salt and pepper. Drizzle the seasoned oil over cooked salmon portions.

Cumin

Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that pairs wonderfully with salmon. It adds subtle smokiness and highlights the oily fattiness of the fish.

Make a quick salmon dry rub by mixing ground cumin with brown sugar, chili powder, salt and pepper. The cumin adds an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

Ginger

Fresh ginger adds a bright, peppery flavor that cuts through salmon’s richness. Grated ginger gives a quick flavor punch, adding some zip to baked or grilled salmon fillets.

For an easy marinade, combine grated ginger with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and brown sugar. Let salmon soak for 20-30 minutes before cooking.

Dill

No herb complements salmon better than fresh dill. The tangy, grassy flavor balances the fish’s oils beautifully.

Chop fresh dill and sprinkle it over cooked salmon portions, or use it to make a quick dill cream sauce to drizzle over your salmon dinner.

Lemon

Bright, tart lemon juice and zest help cut through salmon’s fattiness. Lemon adds freshness and highlights salmon’s natural flavors.

Top grilled or baked salmon with slices of lemon. Or use lemon juice, zest, garlic and olive oil to make a fast salmon marinade.

Creating Your Own Salmon Seasoning Blend

Once you understand what spices work well with salmon, you can start experimenting with your own custom seasoning blends.

Try making a salmon spice rub by combining ingredients like:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Mix the ingredients together and store in an airtight container. Coat salmon portions just before cooking. Bake, grill or pan sear until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.

The possibilities are endless when seasoning salmon. Tailor spice blends to your tastes – add more heat with chili powder or a kick with black pepper. Herbs like dill, parsley or tarragon also enhance salmon’s flavor.

With the right combination of spices and herbs, you can take salmon from bland and boring to mouthwateringly delicious. Next time you cook this amazing fish, take it to the next level with the perfect seasoning blend. Your tastebuds will thank you!