A go-to salmon marinade should be simple yet flavorful

A go-to salmon marinade should be simple yet flavorful, enhancing the natural taste of the fish without overpowering it. This recipe strikes the perfect balance with ingredients that provide sweetness, tang, umami, and a hint of spice. It’s versatile enough to work for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

The Only Salmon Marinade Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated (optional for a subtle zing)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro, or dill)

Instructions:

1. Whisk the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, ginger (if using), Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Make sure the honey or maple syrup is fully dissolved for an even flavor distribution.
2. Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour for the flavors to infuse. (Avoid marinating for longer than 1-2 hours, as the acid from the lemon juice can start to “cook” the fish.)
3. Cook the salmon:
   • Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the salmon skin-side down for 5-6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily.
   • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
   • Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sear the salmon skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the salmon with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Why This Marinade Works:

• Soy sauce provides umami and depth.
• Lemon juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the fish.
• Olive oil ensures moisture and smooth texture.
• Honey adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
• Garlic and ginger bring a subtle warmth and complexity.
• Dijon mustard enhances the tang and balances the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes offer optional heat for those who like a bit of spice.

This marinade is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. It complements the richness of salmon perfectly, and the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors ensures that your salmon will always turn out delicious!