Salmon is one of the most versatile and delicious types of fish. Its rich fatty texture can stand up to a variety of seasonings and cooking methods. Finding the right seasoning to complement salmon can take your meal from bland to spectacular. Whether you’re baking grilling, smoking, or pan frying, proper seasoning is key to maximizing the flavor of salmon.
In this article, we’ll explore the best seasonings and flavor combinations to bring out the very best in salmon fillets and portions. With the right mix of herbs, spices, citrus, sweeteners, and more, you can make your salmon sing.
Herbs and Spices That Compliment Salmon
Many fresh herbs and dried spices pair exceptionally well with salmon to accentuate its flavor. Here are some of the best options:
Dill
Dill has a distinctively bright, grassy flavor that cuts through the richness of salmon beautifully Its mild anise taste works well in sauces, marinades, and compound butters for salmon Chopped fresh dill or a sprinkle of dried dill weed are easy ways to add big flavor.
Lemon
Bright, tangy lemon is a natural pairing with salmon. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving helps balance the fish’s oils. Grated lemon zest also adds wonderful citrus aroma. Rub salmon with sliced lemons before baking or grilling for a burst of freshness.
Garlic
Garlic’s pungent, savory kick works wonderfully with fatty salmon. Mince or crush fresh garlic and add it to marinades, herb rubs, and sauces. Roasted garlic can provide even sweeter, more mellow flavor.
Thyme
Thyme has an assertive, woodsy quality that enhances salmon’s richness. Rub salmon with fresh or dried thyme before cooking for an aromatic boost. Sprigs of thyme added to the baking pan infuse subtle herbal essence.
Rosemary
Like thyme, rosemary has a strong piney aroma that pairs well with salmon’s oiliness. Rub minced fresh rosemary or dried rosemary needles into salmon portions before cooking for a robust woodsy taste.
Cumin
Earthy, nutty cumin can provide depth and sophistication to simple salmon dishes. Add ground cumin to marinades, sauces, and rubs for hearty flavor. A sprinkle of toasted cumin seeds over cooked salmon also adds texture.
Chili Powder
A touch of chili powder’s mild heat and smokiness can spice up salmon deliciously. Mix just a pinch or two into dry rubs or marinades. Chipotle chile powder has an even deeper, richer flavor.
Paprika
Sweet paprika can provide both flavor and color for salmon recipes. For more complexity, use smoked paprika for its irresistible smoky aroma. Paprika works well in dry rubs, marinades, sauces, and more.
Complementary Flavors for Salmon
In addition to herbs and spices, there are many complementary ingredients you can pair with salmon to make it shine:
Lemon
Lemon is worth mentioning again for the brightness and acidity it lends to rich salmon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over cooked salmon or use lemon slices or wedges for serving. Sautéing salmon in butter and lemon is a quick, easy way to delicious flavor.
Lime
Like lemon, fresh lime juice provides brightness to balance salmon’s fattiness. Lime zest also adds vibrant citrus essence. Use lime juice in marinades or sauces, or garnish cooked salmon with lime wedges.
Ginger
Fresh grated ginger or ground ginger spice up salmon with their peppery heat and aromatic quality. Add minced ginger to marinades and sauces or top baked salmon with sliced ginger.
Honey
Honey’s floral sweetness pairs beautifully with salmon’s richness. Drizzle or brush salmon with honey before broiling or baking. Whisk honey into sauces and marinades or use in a ginger-honey glaze.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce can provide a lovely umami savoriness to salmon when used judiciously. A brief marinade or soy sauce drizzled just before serving gives salmon a tasty boost without overwhelming it.
Maple Syrup
Real maple syrup lends its distinctive sweet, earthy flavor to salmon. Use it sparingly to glaze or drizzle over salmon before or after cooking. Maple syrup also balances spicy seasonings like chili powder.
Horseradish
Prepared horseradish sauce or freshly grated horseradish root add a delicious peppery bite that cuts through salmon’s fattiness wonderfully. Fold into sauces or add a dollop on top of cooked salmon.
Mustard
The tang of mustard is a perfect match for rich salmon. Mix Dijon, whole grain, or hot mustard into marinades and sauces. Brushing salmon with mustard sauce before cooking also adds great flavor.
Wine or Stock
Deglazing the pan with white wine or stock after sautéing or roasting salmon incorporates delicious browned bits for extra flavor in sauces. Reducing the wine or stock intensifies the taste.
With so many herbs, spices, and complementary ingredients to choose from, the possibilities for seasoning salmon are endless. Trust your instincts and taste preferences to guide you to new flavor combinations. With the right seasoning, you can make your salmon memorable every time.
Handy Tips for Seasoning Salmon
Follow these tips when seasoning salmon for maximum results:
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Pat salmon dry before seasoning so flavors adhere properly. Salmon’s natural oils can prevent rubs and spices from sticking.
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Season salmon just before cooking. Salting too far in advance can start breaking down the delicate proteins.
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Coat all sides evenly, including the skin. Seasonings infuse best when distributed thoroughly.
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Allow marinades and rubs to penetrate 15-30 minutes before cooking. Longer time won’t necessarily mean more flavor.
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For rubs and sprinkled seasonings, err on the side of underseasoning at first. You can always add more later.
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Bake, grill, or broil seasoned salmon in well-oiled pans or on oiled grates for best results and easy release.
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Adjust seasoning after cooking if needed. A squeeze of lemon or lime brightens flavors.
With its adaptable flavor and texture, salmon takes well to countless herbs, spices, and other seasonings. From classic dill and lemon to unexpected flavors like ginger, soy sauce, and maple syrup, the possibilities are endless. Following these handy tips will help you get the most out of whatever seasoning you choose to complement your salmon.
Using ‘spice rack’ seasoning for salmon
This delicious blend of herbs and spices goes really well with fish, particularly salmon. Here’s how I like to use it:
- Lightly brush a foil-lined baking tray with olive oil.
- Place fillets of salmon, skin-side-down, on the prepared tray.
- Brush the fish fillets lightly with a little more olive oil.
- Generously sprinkle the fish with around 1-2 teaspoon of spice rack seasoning herb and spice blend per portion.
- Bake in a hot oven (approx. 180°C/350°F) for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve with wedges of lemon to squeeze over the top.
It couldn’t be simpler and the results are super-delicious!
You can also use this seasoning on a ‘side’ of salmon, and cut it up to serve once cooked. However, you will need to bake for longer to ensure that the centre of the fish is cooked through. I would say 30-40 minutes for a piece that serves 6-8 people, but it depends on the thickness.
Follow the instructions on the package or ask your fishmonger if you’re in doubt.
What’s in ‘spice rack’ herb & spice seasoning for salmon
This tasty herb and spice mixture includes quite a few items from the list above, plus one or two ‘wildcards’! To make it yourself you will need:
- Parsley
- Thyme
- Tarragon
- Mint (you can use dried mint from a mint tea bag if you don’t have mint in your spice rack)
- Sage
- Bay leaves
- Oregano
- Coriander seeds
- Fennel seeds
- Sumac
- Black peppercorns
- Onion granules/powder
The recipe is pretty forgiving, so if you’re missing one or two, just leave them out, or substitute something similar. And if you only have ready ground coriander or pepper, use those instead of grinding your own.
You can also add a pinch of dried chilli flakes if you like your salmon to have a bit more of a kick!
The Only Way You Should Cook Your Salmon
FAQ
What should I season salmon with?
For seasoning salmon, start with the basics like salt and pepper. You can then enhance the flavor with ingredients like lemon juice, fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme are great), garlic, or a touch of smoked paprika.
Which spices are good for salmon?
Common spices include paprika, chilli, ginger and garlic, adding a punch of flavour. A standout in Asian cooking is teriyaki sauce, combining soy sauce, rice wine (mirin) and brown sugar for a delicious glaze. Alternatively, a honey and soy sauce marinade offers the perfect balance of sweet and savoury.
What flavours go well with salmon?
Dill: A classic pairing with salmon, offering a fresh, slightly tangy flavor. Parsley: Adds brightness and freshness. Thyme: Earthy and aromatic, complementing the richness of the fish. Chives: Mild onion flavor that works well in combination with other herbs. Paprika: Adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color.
What does Gordon Ramsay season his salmon with?
2 salmon filets 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp black pepper 1/8 tsp paprika 1 tbsp olive oi 1 tbsp butter 4 cloves of garlic 4 sprigs of thyme Let the salmon come to room temp. Pat the salmon dry, especially the skin then score the salmon skin. Season both sides with salt, pepper & paprika.