Chum salmon, also known as dog salmon or keta salmon, is a versatile and flavorful fish that deserves a spot on your dinner table. With its mild flavor and firm texture, chum salmon is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, from grilling and baking to poaching and smoking.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast looking to try something new or a home cook wanting to explore healthy and delicious fish recipes, chum salmon offers a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity.
In this post, we’ll explore several delightful recipes for chum salmon that highlight its natural taste while incorporating fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether you want a simple pan-seared fillet or a more elaborate baked dish, these recipes will inspire you to enjoy chum salmon in new and exciting ways.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chum salmon is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Its firm texture holds up well to various cooking methods, so you can enjoy it grilled, baked, or even smoked.
The recipes we share are designed to be easy to follow, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Additionally, chum salmon is often more affordable than other salmon varieties, giving you the chance to enjoy a nutritious and tasty fish without breaking the bank. With bold flavors and fresh ingredients, these recipes will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- Chum salmon fillets (about 1 pound, skin on or off based on preference)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Fresh dill – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Honey or maple syrup – 1 tablespoon (optional for glaze)
- Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Capers – 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Fish spatula or regular spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional for baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Marinate the salmon: Place the chum salmon fillets in the bowl or a shallow dish and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat your cooking method: If grilling or pan-searing, heat your skillet or grill over medium-high heat. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the salmon: For pan-searing or grilling, place the fillets skin side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still moist. For baking, place the fillets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Optional glaze: In the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the salmon with honey or maple syrup for a sweet, caramelized finish.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle capers and fresh parsley over the cooked salmon for a bright, fresh touch. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
“To ensure the best flavor and texture, always buy fresh or properly thawed chum salmon. If grilling, be sure to oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking.”
Tip 1: For a smoky flavor, try smoking your chum salmon with wood chips before applying the glaze.
Tip 2: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari to the marinade for an Asian-inspired twist.
Variation: Try this recipe baked with thin slices of lemon and fresh thyme for a fragrant and zesty dish.
Variation: Incorporate a fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to top the salmon for a vibrant contrast.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (4 oz) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 23 g |
Fat | 9 g |
Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
Cholesterol | 60 mg |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.2 g |
Vitamin D | 570 IU |
Serving Suggestions
Chum salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a light salad such as our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a refreshing balance.
For a comforting meal, serve the salmon with quinoa or brown rice, or try it with garlic mashed potatoes. A drizzle of a lemon-dill yogurt sauce or a tangy avocado dressing can also elevate the flavors.
To explore more plant-based side ideas that complement seafood beautifully, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.
Conclusion
Chum salmon is a delicious and nutritious fish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Its mild flavor and firm texture make it incredibly versatile, allowing you to prepare it in many ways without losing its distinct taste.
Whether you choose to grill, bake, or pan-sear your salmon, these recipes provide simple yet flavorful options to enjoy this wonderful fish.
By incorporating fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and thoughtful seasoning, you can elevate the natural flavors of chum salmon to create memorable meals for family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different marinades and sides to find your perfect combination.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Grilled Chum Salmon with Lemon and Herbs
Description: A simple and flavorful grilled chum salmon recipe seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon. Perfect for a healthy and quick dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chum salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush salmon fillets with olive oil on both sides.
- Season fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
- Place salmon on the grill, skin side down.
- Grill for 8-10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes.
- In the last 2 minutes, add lemon slices and sprinkle garlic, dill, and parsley over the salmon.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 34g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 1g
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