When it comes to cooking salmon, many people tend to stick to the same old recipes and methods. But why not mix things up a bit? Italian cuisine, in particular, offers a wealth of flavors and techniques that can elevate your salmon game. From creamy sauces to bold herbs and spices, there are countless ways to prepare Italian-inspired salmon dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious Italian salmon recipes perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes have got you covered. From classic pairings like garlic butter and lemon to more adventurous combinations like sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, there’s something for everyone.
So let’s dive in and discover the flavors of Italy, shall we?
Garlic Butter Italian Salmon with Lemon
Elevate your salmon game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter, the brightness of lemon, and the warmth of Italian herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and oregano.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this decadent salmon dish, featuring a creamy spinach sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in heavy cream until slightly thickened.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Spoon the creamy spinach sauce over the salmon fillets.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pesto-Crusted Salmon with Parmesan
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the creamy zing of pesto and the nutty depth of Parmesan, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together basil leaves and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a tablespoon of pesto sauce over each fillet, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the basil-Parmesan mixture evenly over the pesto sauce.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Italian Herb Grilled Salmon with Balsamic Glaze
Experience the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors with this recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of Italian herbs and a sweet balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, basil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the balsamic glaze on top of the salmon.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Italian Salmon and Veggies
This flavorful one-pan dish combines salmon fillets with a medley of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a rich and aromatic tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add salmon fillets; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Remove salmon; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Return salmon to the skillet; spoon some of the tomato sauce over each fillet.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sauce is bubbly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Salmon Piccata
This recipe takes the classic Italian dish, piccata, and gives it a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and white wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve the salmon with the lemon garlic sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Salmon with Mozzarella
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of salmon, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Top each fillet with diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
7. Top each fillet with sliced mozzarella cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Salmon with Fresh Basil
Elevate your salmon dish with a flavorful twist by stuffing it with the classic Caprese combination of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut a horizontal slit in each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Stuff each fillet with a slice of mozzarella cheese, some diced tomato, and a few leaves of basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this fragrant and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this roasted salmon is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle chopped rosemary and dried thyme evenly among the fillets.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Salmon with Olives and Feta
Elevate your salmon dish with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean! This recipe combines succulent salmon, briny olives, tangy feta, and a hint of lemon for a harmonious balance of tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olives, feta cheese, garlic, and lemon zest.
5. Spoon the olive-feta mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Salmon
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious salmon recipe, packed with the savory goodness of sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato-artichoke mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 4
Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with the tender texture of salmon, perfectly paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables for roasting (e.g., Brussels sprouts, carrots, red bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salmon, followed by olive oil and thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the vegetables in a separate pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve the balsamic glazed salmon with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon Pasta with Creamy Alfredo Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon and creamy alfredo sauce with the simplicity of pasta, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can have this dish on your table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb cooked salmon fillet, flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked salmon and fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated with creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon Risotto with Saffron and Peas
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful risotto dish, packed with succulent salmon, saffron-infused creaminess, and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed. Then, add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
3. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in saffron and its liquid.
4. Remove from heat; fold in cooked salmon, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Italian Salsa Verde
Grilled Salmon with Italian Salsa Verde: A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional grilled salmon, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the tangy and herby flavors of Italy’s Salsa Verde sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, basil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush both sides of salmon fillets with the salsa verde mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Salmon and White Bean Stew with Rosemary
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender salmon, creamy cannellini beans, and fragrant rosemary. A simple yet satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
– 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, rosemary, and cannellini beans. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Place the salmon fillets on top of the stew and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salmon Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful combination of grilled salmon, fresh tomatoes, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 6 oz salmon fillet (fresh or frozen)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices by grilling for 1-2 minutes on each side or broiling for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Top toasted bread with diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and a sprinkle of garlic.
6. Brush salmon with olive oil and place on top of the bruschetta.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Asparagus Frittata
A delicious and healthy breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of salmon and asparagus with a creamy frittata.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup diced cooked salmon (wild-caught Alaskan or Pacific)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked asparagus in the skillet.
5. Top with diced salmon and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the frittata is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salmon with Lemon Caper Sauce
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and capers, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, capers, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the salmon, making sure each fillet is coated evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Salmon with Penne
This recipe combines the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce and spicy salmon for a mouthwatering pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Add arrabbiata sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta and spicy arrabbiata sauce in a large bowl. Top with salmon fillets and sprinkle with parsley.
7. Serve immediately, with red pepper flakes on top if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Italian-inspired salmon recipes! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes perfect for any occasion. From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon to creamy sauces with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, these recipes showcase the best of Italy’s flavors. Try pesto-crusted salmon with parmesan, grilled salmon with balsamic glaze, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes with olives and feta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Italian-style salmon recipes.
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