11 Delicious Marinade Recipes for Perfectly Grilled Salmon

Marinating salmon is a simple and tasty way to elevate your seafood dishes, bringing out its natural flavors while adding a twist of your own. With an array of marinade recipes at your fingertips, you can transform a basic salmon fillet into a mouthwatering meal in no time. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or something with a bit of zing, there’s a marinade here for everyone to enjoy!

Mediterranean Herb Marinade with Olive Oil

This Mediterranean herb marinade is a fantastic way to infuse salmon with vibrant flavors. It combines fresh herbs and olive oil, creating a light and aromatic blend that complements the natural richness of the fish. The marinade is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing your salmon for a delicious meal.

The taste is fresh and zesty, with hints of oregano, thyme, and parsley that transport you to sunny Mediterranean shores. It’s a quick recipe that can elevate your dinner with minimal effort. Give your salmon a taste of the Mediterranean!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon: Preheat your grill or oven. Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side on the grill or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Enjoy your Mediterranean herb-marinated salmon hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices if desired.

Maple Mustard Marinade for a Unique Twist

This Maple Mustard Marinade is a delightful way to add a sweet and tangy flavor to your salmon. The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a rich, complex taste that pairs beautifully with the natural flavors of the fish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The marinade not only enhances the salmon but also helps to keep it moist and tender during cooking. Just a short time in the marinade can make a big difference in flavor, providing a delicious twist that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place your salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Cook the salmon for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Discard any leftover marinade.

Spicy Soy Sauce Marinade with Ginger

This spicy soy sauce marinade is a fantastic way to add flavor to salmon, bringing together the savory notes of soy with the zing of fresh ginger. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. The blend of heat and sweetness creates a deliciously balanced taste that complements the natural richness of the fish.

Using this marinade is straightforward—simply mix the ingredients, let the salmon soak, and then cook it to perfection. You’ll love how this simple recipe transforms your dish into a flavorful masterpiece!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 4 salmon fillets

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the salmon is well coated.
3. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
5. Cook the salmon for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Lemon-Dill Marinade for Bright Flavors

This lemon-dill marinade is a fantastic way to infuse your salmon with bright, refreshing flavors. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic dill creates a vibrant taste that perfectly complements the rich, buttery flavor of the fish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

The marinade not only enhances the salmon’s natural taste but also helps keep it moist and tender during cooking. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here’s how to make this delicious lemon-dill marinade:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
2. Add the chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated.
3. Place the salmon in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the fish is well coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook until it flakes easily with a fork, about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.

Cilantro-Lime Marinade for a Zesty Kick

This cilantro-lime marinade brings a burst of freshness to your salmon. The vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime combine perfectly, giving your dish a delightful zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the rich taste of salmon. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Simply marinate your salmon for about 30 minutes before cooking to let the flavors soak in. The result is a juicy, tangy, and herbaceous salmon that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy this refreshing twist on a classic!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
6. Remove the salmon from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade.
7. Cook the salmon until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Honey-Garlic Glaze for Sweet and Savory

This honey-garlic glaze is a perfect blend of sweetness and savory flavors, making it an ideal marinade for salmon. It’s easy to whip up and elevates the taste of your fish with just a few ingredients. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked, giving your salmon a rich, mouthwatering flavor.

This recipe is not only simple, but it’s also versatile. You can use it for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this glaze will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the salmon is well-coated.
3. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates.
5. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill or bake for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Brush with additional marinade while cooking if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Balsamic Vinegar Marinade for Rich Depth

This balsamic vinegar marinade brings a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements salmon. It’s simple to make and transforms your meal into something special with just a few ingredients. You’ll love the balance of sweetness and acidity, making each bite a delight.

This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the fish, ensuring that your salmon comes out moist and flaky. It’s a great choice for any weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well blended. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon: Preheat your grill or oven. Remove salmon from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill or bake until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, about 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.
4. Serve: Drizzle with any remaining marinade before serving for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy your deliciously marinated salmon!

Garlic-Parsley Marinade for Herb Lovers

This Garlic-Parsley Marinade is a dream come true for herb enthusiasts. Combining the bold flavors of garlic and fresh parsley, it adds a vibrant touch to salmon, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Simple to whip up, this marinade brings out the natural essence of the fish while infusing it with a burst of herbal goodness.

Making this marinade is a breeze and requires just a few ingredients. It not only enhances the taste but also elevates the dish visually, thanks to the fresh parsley. Marinated salmon is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, making it versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 salmon fillets

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top, ensuring the fish is evenly coated.
3. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Chili-Lime Marinade for a Spicy Kick

This chili-lime marinade brings a perfect balance of heat and tang, making it an ideal choice for salmon lovers. The fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness, while the chili brings an exciting kick. Best of all, it’s super easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time to let the flavors meld.

This marinade not only enhances the natural flavor of salmon but also infuses it with a deliciously spicy twist. It’s perfect for grilling or baking, giving your dish a vibrant finish. Plus, it complements the richness of salmon perfectly, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound salmon fillet

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the salmon fillet in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring the salmon is fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side on the grill, or 12-15 minutes in the oven, until it flakes easily with a fork.

Teriyaki Marinade for a Sweet and Salty Flavor

Teriyaki marinade is a fantastic blend of sweet and salty flavors that pairs beautifully with salmon. This easy-to-make marinade infuses the fish with a rich taste, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

This marinade not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also helps to keep it moist and tender during cooking. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, teriyaki salmon is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickness)

Instructions

1. Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the fish. Seal or cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon: Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet. If desired, you can thicken the marinade by simmering it with cornstarch and water. Cook the salmon for about 5-6 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade for extra flavor.
4. Serve: Once the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily, remove from heat. Serve with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Tandoori Marinade for an Exotic Flavor

Tandoori marinade brings a burst of vibrant spices that can elevate your salmon to new heights. This marinade is a mix of yogurt and traditional Indian spices, offering a tangy and aromatic flavor profile that’s both exotic and approachable. Preparing the marinade is straightforward, making it a great option for any home cook looking to impress.

With its rich color and complex taste, tandoori-marinated salmon is sure to be a hit at your next meal. The yogurt helps tenderize the fish while the spices create a flavorful crust when grilled or baked. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions for this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 4 salmon fillets

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, garlic powder, ginger paste, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fish is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even more flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If grilling, cook the salmon for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. If baking, place the fillets on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill or oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!