Delicious Salmon Recipes and Varieties to Explore

Salmon is an oily fish known for its tender, buttery flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, B vitamins, and minerals like potassium and zinc, it offers numerous health benefits, including heart health. Versatile and straightforward to prepare, salmon fits well into various dishes. Before trying out recipes, it's useful to understand the different types of salmon available, which can influence your cooking choices. Here are some popular kinds of salmon to consider.

Types of Salmon

Wild-caught salmon is preferred for its superior taste, nutrition, and quality compared to farm-raised options. Although more expensive, it offers richer flavor. The main wild salmon types include:

King salmon, with high fat content, provides a luxurious, intense flavor.

Coho salmon features a tender texture and is smaller, often used in cooking.

Sockeye salmon, known for its vibrant red color, is lean but flavorful.

Chum salmon is valued for its eggs rather than flesh.

When preparing salmon at home, consider choosing wild varieties for the best taste. If budget is a concern, farmed salmon can be an alternative.
For cooking, classic methods include baking and smoking, both quick and delicious options.

How to Bake Salmon

For a tasty baked salmon, gather these ingredients:

Fresh, pink salmon fillets—preferably vacuum-sealed or fresh, free from freezer burn.

Olive oil or ghee for healthful cooking.

Cracked black pepper and salt.

Minced garlic for added flavor.

Italian herbs or a homemade herb blend.

A lemon for zest and acidity.

Prepare by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned salmon on a greased baking sheet. Mix garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then spread over the fillets, squeezing lemon juice on top. Garnish with lemon slices and bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky. Finish with fresh herbs for a delightful dish.

How to Make Smoked Salmon

This simple smoked salmon recipe requires only a few ingredients:

2-pound salmon fillet with skin

2 tbsp brown sugar

2 tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

1-2 tbsp liquid smoke

Optional: capers and lemon slices

Steps:

Place the salmon, skin side down, in an oiled baking dish.

Sprinkle with sugar, salt, spices, and drizzle with liquid smoke. Refrigerate for 4-8 hours.

Remove, rinse excess seasoning, and bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes until flaky. Chill, then serve with capers and lemon.

Interesting Salmon Facts

The word "salmon" derives from the Latin "salmo," evolving into Middle English as "samoun."

Salmon canning started in New England around 1840, spreading to California by 1964.

There are over 9,000 known salmon species and varieties worldwide.