As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting bowl of salmon to lift your spirits. In this collection of 18 cozy winter salmon recipes, we’ve got you covered with a range of deliciously hearty options that are sure to become new favorites.
From sweet and sticky maple glazes to savory and aromatic spice blends, these recipes showcase the versatility of salmon as a ingredient and the many ways it can be prepared. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, there’s a winter salmon recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 18 recipes, exploring the flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make them stand out. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let’s get cooking!
Maple Glazed Roasted Winter Salmon
Roast winter salmon to perfection with a sweet and sticky maple glaze, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 winter salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
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, skin side down (if applicable).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Winter Herbs
A flavorful and aromatic salmon recipe perfect for a cozy winter evening. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley add a fragrant twist to the classic garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 the softened butter, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and parsley until well combined.
5. Spread one-quarter of the butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Dill Salmon and Potato Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh dill, creamy sauce, and flaky salmon with crispy potatoes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of the baking sheet, leaving a small border around each filet.
4. Arrange the potato slices on the other half of the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, heavy cream, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the salmon is cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Winter Citrus Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze
Brighten up your winter menu with this flavorful and refreshing salmon dish, featuring the sweetness of pomegranate and the tanginess of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, orange juice, honey, and ginger.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the citrus-pomegranate glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly firm to the touch.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Honey Mustard Salmon with Root Vegetables
In this recipe, sweet honey and tangy mustard complement the rich flavor of salmon, while root vegetables add a satisfying crunch. This one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard.
4. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then brush with the honey-mustard mixture.
6. Arrange carrot and parsnip slices around the salmon.
7. Sprinkle garlic over the vegetables.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Salmon Chowder for Cold Nights
Warm up on chilly evenings with this hearty and flavorful Smoky Salmon Chowder recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (14.75 oz), drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the flaked salmon, chicken broth, heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Kale Stuffed Winter Squash
Warm up with this seasonal recipe that combines the flavors of roasted salmon, tender kale, and sweet winter squash.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized winter squashes (such as butternut or acorn)
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together salmon fillets, chopped kale, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each squash half with the salmon-kale mixture, dividing it evenly between both squashes.
5. Place the stuffed squashes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and the salmon cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Salmon with Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and healthy recipe, featuring tender salmon paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the salmon is cooking, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
6. Spread the sprouts on a separate baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted sprouts and serve alongside the salmon.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Salmon and Lentil Stew with Winter Spices
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of salmon, lentils, and winter spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cardamom; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Add the salmon and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Crusted Salmon with Roasted Carrots
A flavorful and visually appealing dish that combines the richness of pesto with the delicate taste of salmon, served alongside sweet and tender roasted carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into sticks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pesto and breadcrumbs.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Dip each fillet in the pesto-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast carrots in a separate baking dish with 1 tbsp of olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss occasionally until tender (20-25 minutes).
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with roasted carrots.
Cooking Time: Salmon: 12-15 minutes, Carrots: 20-25 minutes
Winter Salmon Nicoise Salad with Warm Dressing
Escape the chill of winter with this hearty and flavorful salad, featuring pan-seared salmon, crispy bacon, and a rich warm dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in olive oil until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion.
4. Warm the dressing by whisking together olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
5. Place cooked salmon on top of the salad and drizzle with warm dressing. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salmon and Wild Rice Casserole with Mushrooms
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of wild rice, succulent salmon, and earthy mushrooms for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Place salmon fillet on top of mushroom mixture.
6. Combine cooked wild rice with thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread half of the rice mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with salmon fillet, then remaining rice mixture.
8. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Salmon with Cranberry Quinoa Pilaf
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this recipe combines the warmth of spices with the tanginess of cranberries to create a dish that’s sure to delight. Pan-seared salmon fillets are served atop a flavorful quinoa pilaf infused with the brightness of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. While quinoa cooks, mix cranberries with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in cranberry mixture.
6. Serve salmon atop quinoa pilaf, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Salmon and Sweet Potato Hash with Fried Eggs
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the rich flavor of salmon, the sweetness of sweet potatoes, and the creaminess of fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook salmon fillets in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, fry eggs to desired doneness.
5. To assemble, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with cooked salmon, and serve with fried eggs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Winter Salmon Wellington with Spinach and Feta
Winter Salmon Wellington with Spinach and Feta
Warm up this winter with a deliciously savory salmon Wellington, packed with spinach and feta. This elegant dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a salmon fillet on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the spinach-feta mixture in the center of each fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place a pastry sheet over each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Brush the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and White Bean Soup with Rosemary
Salmon and White Bean Soup with Rosemary
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of salmon, creamy cannellini beans, and the brightness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the salmon pieces and cook until they start to flake, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the cannellini beans, rosemary, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Apple Cider Reduction
Savor the sweetness of autumn with this elegant and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the pan and swirl to melt.
4. Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, reduce apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat by half.
6. Stir in garlic, honey, and salt.
7. Serve reduced apple cider sauce over seared salmon.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salmon and Farro Bowl with Roasted Beets
This recipe combines the sweet flavors of roasted beets with the richness of salmon, all on a bed of nutty farro. A perfect balance of colors and textures for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large beets, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the beet cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
3. While the beets are roasting, cook the farro according to package instructions.
4. Season the salmon fillets with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of farro on a plate, top with roasted beets, and add a piece of salmon. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Warm up this winter with these deliciously hearty salmon recipes. From classic roasted dishes to creative twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try your hand at Maple Glazed Roasted Winter Salmon or Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Winter Herbs. Or, if you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, opt for Creamy Dill Salmon and Potato Bake or Smoky Salmon Chowder. These 18 cozy winter salmon recipes are sure to become new favorites.