30+ Healthy Friday Salmon Recipes to Kickstart Your Weekend Meals

Friday evenings are the perfect time to unwind, indulge, and savor a flavorful meal to kick off the weekend.

Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or hosting friends for a casual get-together, salmon is always an excellent choice.

Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, rich in protein, and incredibly versatile, salmon can be prepared in numerous ways to suit any palate.

In this collection, we’ve curated over 30 mouth-watering Friday salmon recipes that are guaranteed to add excitement and flavor to your weekly dinner routine.

From grilled and baked to glazed and seared, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your salmon dishes while enjoying every bite.

30+ Healthy Friday Salmon Recipes to Kickstart Your Weekend Meals

Salmon is a standout choice for a Friday meal, offering both delicious flavors and numerous health benefits.

Whether you prefer it with a tangy glaze, a spicy rub, or complemented by fresh sides, there’s a recipe here for every taste.

With these 30+ Friday salmon recipes, you’ll have no shortage of ideas to make your Friday dinner something special.

So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and celebrate the start of your weekend with one of these fantastic salmon dishes!

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is a delicious and nutritious option for your Friday dinner table. The tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and then coated in a sweet, savory glaze that’s bursting with garlic and honey flavor. Paired with your favorite side dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy and impress.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Place the salmon in the skillet, skin side up, and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the fillets. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is fully coated and cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or sesame seeds if desired.

This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon combines sweet and savory flavors in a way that’s both comforting and gourmet. It’s an easy recipe to whip up after a busy week and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.

Cajun Blackened Salmon

Spice up your Friday meal with Cajun Blackened Salmon, a bold and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare. The smoky, spicy rub perfectly complements the natural richness of the salmon, creating a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture generously onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets skin side down.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spices form a dark crust. Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve hot with a side of creamy coleslaw or cornbread.

Cajun Blackened Salmon is a perfect choice for those who love bold flavors and a hint of spice. This dish makes an excellent centerpiece for a casual Friday dinner and pairs well with Southern-inspired sides or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon

Indulge in the zesty freshness of Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon, an elegant and creamy dish that’s ideal for a relaxing Friday night. This recipe pairs the tangy brightness of lemon with the herbaceous flavor of dill, creating a sauce that elevates the tender salmon to new heights.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add fresh dill and return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the fillets. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional dill and a lemon wedge.

Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon is a versatile and luxurious dish that makes any Friday meal feel special. The creamy sauce complements the salmon’s natural flavor and is perfect for mopping up with crusty bread or pairing with steamed asparagus or mashed potatoes.

Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds

For a flavorful Asian-inspired dish, Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds is an irresistible Friday night meal. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the rich, tender salmon fillets, and the addition of sesame seeds gives a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This easy-to-make recipe will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black)
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki glaze.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the glaze over the fish. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle sesame seeds over the salmon and cook until toasted.
5. Remove from the skillet and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds is a quick and delicious recipe that offers a perfect balance of flavors. The sweet teriyaki glaze combined with the crunch of sesame seeds creates an exciting texture and taste experience. Pair this dish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad for a wholesome meal.

Baked Salmon with Pesto Crust

Baked Salmon with Pesto Crust is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that takes minimal effort but yields impressive results. The herby, garlicky pesto crust enhances the salmon’s flavor while keeping it moist and tender, making it an ideal choice for a laid-back but delicious Friday dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on top of each fillet. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon zest.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Baked Salmon with Pesto Crust is a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy this healthy fish. The aromatic pesto and Parmesan create a perfect crust that locks in moisture, ensuring the salmon is tender and full of flavor. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that works well for both casual and special occasions.

Mediterranean Salmon with Feta and Olives

Mediterranean Salmon with Feta and Olives offers a fresh, savory flavor profile that transports your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean. With a combination of briny olives, tangy feta, and fragrant herbs, this dish is both light and hearty, making it an excellent choice for a flavorful Friday dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Top each salmon fillet with crumbled feta cheese and chopped olives. Arrange lemon slices on top.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Mediterranean Salmon with Feta and Olives is a vibrant and healthy dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. The creamy feta and briny olives pair beautifully with the rich salmon, while the fresh herbs and lemon add a refreshing burst of flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with couscous, roasted potatoes, or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Maple Dijon Salmon

Maple Dijon Salmon is a sweet and tangy dish that’s perfect for those who love a balance of flavors. The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a rich glaze that caramelizes perfectly over the salmon, making each bite both savory and sweet. This recipe is quick to prepare and guaranteed to become a Friday favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the maple Dijon glaze generously over the fillets.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Maple Dijon Salmon is a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a fantastic choice for an easy but flavorful Friday dinner. The glaze creates a deliciously caramelized finish while keeping the salmon tender and juicy. Pair this dish with roasted sweet potatoes or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus is a rich, comforting dish that combines two of the most beloved ingredients—salmon and garlic butter. The salmon is seared to perfection, then bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that infuses the fish with flavor. The asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy contrast, making this dish a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest. Stir until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant.
5. Add the asparagus around the salmon and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve immediately, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the salmon and asparagus.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus is a luxurious yet simple meal that’s perfect for a cozy Friday dinner. The combination of garlic butter, fresh herbs, and tender salmon makes each bite irresistible, while the roasted asparagus adds a perfect contrast in flavor and texture. Pair this dish with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete and wholesome meal.

Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa brings a burst of freshness to your Friday dinner. The smoky char of the grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado salsa, creating a dish that’s light, vibrant, and full of flavor. It’s a healthy and satisfying option that requires minimal prep, making it perfect for a relaxing evening.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side until the fish is cooked through and has a slight char.
4. While the salmon is grilling, prepare the avocado salsa by combining the diced avocados, red onion, tomato, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently.
5. Serve the grilled salmon with a generous spoonful of avocado salsa on top.

Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a warm Friday evening. The smoky grilled salmon pairs wonderfully with the creamy, tangy avocado salsa, creating a satisfying and healthy meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of grilled vegetables or a quinoa salad for a complete, vibrant dinner.

Lemon Dill Salmon with Roasted Potatoes

Lemon Dill Salmon with Roasted Potatoes is a bright and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a simple yet satisfying Friday dinner. The tangy lemon and fragrant dill bring out the best in the salmon, while the roasted potatoes offer a hearty and comforting side. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender, flipping halfway through.
3. While the potatoes are roasting, drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with garlic powder, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
4. In the last 10 minutes of roasting the potatoes, place the seasoned salmon fillets on a separate baking sheet or in a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve the salmon with roasted potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley.

Lemon Dill Salmon with Roasted Potatoes is a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors. The tender salmon pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon and aromatic dill, while the roasted potatoes bring comfort and heartiness to the dish. It’s a light yet filling meal that’s perfect for a relaxing and flavorful Friday night dinner.

Coconut Curry Salmon

Coconut Curry Salmon brings a rich and exotic twist to your Friday meal with the creamy texture of coconut milk and the vibrant flavors of curry spices. This dish is savory, slightly spicy, and has a wonderful depth of flavor. The addition of salmon creates a hearty, satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, curry powder, and turmeric.
2. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the salmon through.
5. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.

Coconut Curry Salmon is a flavorful and unique dish that brings bold flavors to your Friday night dinner table. The creamy coconut curry sauce complements the rich, tender salmon, creating a satisfying and aromatic meal. Serve with steamed rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce for a complete and indulgent dinner.

Blackened Salmon with Cilantro Lime Rice

Blackened Salmon with Cilantro Lime Rice is a bold and zesty dish that brings together the smoky flavors of blackened salmon with the fresh, tangy profile of cilantro lime rice. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat and freshness, making it an exciting and flavorful choice for a Friday dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets with the spice mix, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until blackened and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, rinse the rice and bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir the cilantro and lime juice into the cooked rice.
5. Serve the blackened salmon on top of the cilantro lime rice and garnish with extra lime wedges.

Blackened Salmon with Cilantro Lime Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s full of bold spices and fresh, zesty notes. The crispy blackened salmon pairs beautifully with the refreshing cilantro lime rice, creating a balanced meal that is perfect for a flavorful Friday night dinner.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Sesame Green Beans

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Sesame Green Beans is a flavorful and Asian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the richness of grilled salmon. The sesame green beans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making this dish a perfect balance of taste and texture. This quick and easy recipe will have you enjoying a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for the beans)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the salmon fillets with the teriyaki glaze on both sides, reserving some sauce for later.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing occasionally with the glaze until the fish is cooked through and has a nice char.
5. Meanwhile, heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in soy sauce and sesame seeds and toss to coat.
6. Serve the glazed salmon with the sesame green beans on the side, drizzling the remaining teriyaki sauce over the top of the fish.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Sesame Green Beans brings the savory and sweet flavors of Japanese cuisine into your home. The tender salmon, coated with the rich, sweet teriyaki glaze, is perfectly complemented by the crunchy sesame green beans. This meal is quick, simple, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal Friday night dinner. Pair with steamed rice or a side salad for a complete meal.

Pesto Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

Pesto Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is a bright and vibrant dish that brings together the herby richness of pesto with the smoky flavors of roasted salmon. The roasted vegetables add a burst of color and balance out the richness of the salmon. This dish is not only full of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors but also quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the vegetables (cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper) on it. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. While the vegetables are roasting, brush the salmon fillets with pesto sauce on all sides.
4. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
5. Serve the pesto-coated salmon over the roasted vegetables, garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.

Pesto Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is a flavorful and colorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy and satisfying Friday dinner. The herby pesto infuses the salmon with bright flavors, while the roasted vegetables provide a tender, savory base. This meal is simple yet elegant, making it an ideal choice when you want a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner.

Spicy Cajun Salmon Tacos

Spicy Cajun Salmon Tacos are a bold and exciting way to enjoy salmon, combining smoky Cajun spices with the crunch of fresh taco toppings. These tacos are packed with flavor, featuring perfectly seared salmon, a zesty cabbage slaw, and a cool, creamy sauce to balance the heat. Perfect for a casual Friday dinner with a bit of kick!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
4. While the salmon is cooking, mix the shredded cabbage with cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
5. In a small bowl, combine sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice to create the creamy sauce.
6. To assemble the tacos, place the flaked salmon in each tortilla and top with the cabbage slaw and a drizzle of sour cream sauce. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Spicy Cajun Salmon Tacos are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy salmon, bringing a bit of heat and a lot of zest to your Friday dinner. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds depth to the salmon, while the cool, creamy sauce and crunchy slaw offer the perfect contrast. These tacos are a crowd-pleasing and exciting meal, ideal for a relaxed and tasty end to your week.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!