16 Easy Sauces for Salmon (+Recipes)
I love making salmon for dinner because it’s juicy, flaky, and always brings bright flavors to my table.
When I want to add more flair, I choose easy sauces for salmon that come together without stress.
You can drizzle a tasty sauce on a fillet or a baked salmon to elevate every bite.
Some days, I use fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice to keep things tangy.
Other times, I mix mayonnaise or soy sauce for a bold twist. Salmon is delicious, and adding a sauce makes it even better.
Why Choose the Right Sauce for Salmon?
You deserve a sauce that pairs perfectly with salmon’s natural taste. The right blend can highlight the fish’s flavor. It also sets the mood, whether you’re planning a simple weeknight meal or a fancy event.
Easy Sauces for Salmon
I believe a sauce can be your best friend. It’s a basic ingredient that turns fresh seafood into something special. Pick a flavor you love, then enjoy!
1. Lemon Butter Sauce
I often melt a small pat of butter with a burst of lemon juice in my saucepan. This creates a zesty topping that tastes wonderful on a roast salmon fillet.
I toss in basil or parsley for fresh herbs and let it simmer until the mixture is slightly tangy. My family love how buttery and bright it gets.
This sauce recipe feels simple, yet it brings a happy twist to dinner. It’s my go-to on a busy weeknight.
2. Honey Garlic Glaze
I combining honey, garlic, and a dash of soy sauce for a glaze that’s both savory and sweet. It’s great on baked salmon when I’m craving a sticky, flavorful meal.
I whisk everything in a food processor or by hand, then brush the sauce on each fillet. In minutes, the salmon turns golden.
You’ll want this tangy sauce for an easy-to-make dish that satisfies everyone. It even pairs with side dishes like roasted veggies or fluffy rice.
3. Creamy Dill Sauce
I mix a little mayo or sour cream, fresh dill, and a sprinkling of chopped shallot for a silky sauce. It’s got a tangy note that wakes up any bite of salmon.
Sometimes I add a splash of vinegar or lemon zest for even more zing. This is the perfect dipping sauce when you’re in the mood for something cool and refreshing.
My kids love it on top of grilled fish. It’s also nice if you want a mild, soothing complement.
4. Brown Sugar Teriyaki Sauce
I stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of white wine vinegar to create a sweet, savory blend. It clings nicely to each fillet and gives it a shiny glaze.
I’ve tried it on Alaskan salmon, and the result is so good I can’t stop smiling. The marinade only takes minutes to make in my kitchen.
Broil or grill your fish, then spoon this sauce on top. Its salty-sweet punch spices up seafood without fuss.
5. Lemon Caper Sauce
I love how capers add a tangy, briny taste to my favorite salmon sauce recipe. I warm up lemon juice, white wine, and a spoon of butter in my saucepan.
Once the sauce thickens, I drop in those salty capers. The result is bright and zesty, the perfect partner for succulent fish.
If you like bold flavors, you’ll love this. It’s so easy to make, yet it feels fancy. My friends always ask for second help.
6. Miso Glaze
I sometimes grab store-bought miso paste from my pantry and whisk it with soy sauce, a touch of sugar, and water.
This glaze tastes mildly sweet and earthy. It’s a simple way to give salmon a unique flair.
I spread it over the fish and broil until the edges caramelize. The result is a juicy fillet that bursts with a fusion of flavors. Miso adds a gentle savory depth that turns each bite into magic.
7. Creamy Mustard Sauce
I combine some ingredients like mayonnaise, dijon mustard, onion powder, honey and a drizzle of lemon juice in a bowl. It’s thick, zesty, and super smooth.
Sometimes I add chopped parsley and basil for color. This sauce wakes up a baked salmon instantly.
My kids think it tastes a bit like a bright condiment you might find in a casual diner. Savor it on top of a flaky fillet, and you’ll see how it can turn dinner into pure delight.
8. Basil Pesto
I prepare fresh pesto by blending basil, parsley, olive oil, and a handful of nuts in my food processor. It’s green, garlicky, and tastes like summer in a jar.
When spread over salmon, each bite bursts with herby goodness. You don’t need fancy techniques. Just spoon it on or serve as a perfect dipping sauce.
I also love dabbing it on toast or mixing it with noodles. It feels comforting and easy to make for everyone.
9. Spicy Sriracha Honey Sauce
I whip up this sauce when I crave a fresh kick. Mixing sriracha, honey, and a bit of lime juice turns any salmon into a sweet-hot treat.
That spicy balance keeps me coming back for more. It’s fun to paint on a fillet just before popping it in the oven.
The result has a golden sheen and a bold bite. If you like heat, this sauce is a no-fuss way to add flair to dinner.
10. Spinach Cream Sauce
This is a true kitchen hero of a creamy spinach sauce! It’s a hearty, protein-rich element for your pasta dishes.
I love that it’s so versatile, you can also use it to elevate salmon, chicken, or even seafood such as shrimp and scallops.
It has a real crowd-pleasing rich, velvety texture and savory flavors. Give it a try, and I’m sure you will find it to be one of your go-to sauces for quick and easy meals.
11. Chimichurri Sauce
A fresh, and tangy sauce from Argentina, Chimichurri is one worth remembering.
It’s a super easy recipe that’s made with only a few simple ingredients such as olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs.
The best part? takes just under 10 minutes to make! Use this flavor-packed sauce to drizzle over grilled steak, beaked salmon, or roasted veggies.
Once you make homemade chimichurri, you’ll be hooked. This is a game-changer for your meals!
12. Tartar Sauce
I remember my mom mixing pickles, mayonnaise, and a spoon of vinegar for a quick homemade tartar. It’s creamy, tangy, and a total crowd-pleaser.
I love spooning it over fried or baked salmon for a comforting meal. If you’re in a hurry, a store-bought version gets the job done too.
But I find the homemade version has bright flavors that you can tweak. A pinch of extra seasoning or shallot can make it new every time.
13. Sour Cream Sauce
This is My sister’s favorite salmon sauce. You want to sour cream, whole milk, onion powder, and garlic powder for this creamy sauce.
It’s perfect for salmon side dishes like roasted potatoes or grilled veggies. My sister says it tastes fresh and not too heavy.
You can adjust the level of zest by adding more fresh chives. Just remember to keep it easy and breezy.
14. Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
I blend cilantro and lime juice with a scoop of mayonnaise to make a velvety sauce. The punchy taste lights up a fillet, so you get a breezy, summery vibe.
Sometimes I toss in a bit of chili powder for extra spice. It works wonders on grilled salmon or even poach methods that need more flavor.
This might become your new favorite sauce because it’s simple, bright, and has those fresh herbs that wake up your senses.
15. Béarnaise Sauce
I love how fancy this sauce feels. I whisk egg yolks, butter, and tarragon together to make something buttery and rich.
It’s a splurge, but worth it when you want a special dinner. Pairing it with salmon is like dipping each bite in silky heaven.
The process can seem fussy, but it’s not bad once you try it. A little practice and a gentle stir result in a creamy dream. Serve it warm for the best taste.
16. Salsa Verde
This vibrant, zesty green sauce, salsa verde, is a great match for so many dishes.
The fresh herbs, lime and spices combine to make a flavor explosion that I love.
You can use it to top grilled steak, roasted chicken, or my favorite way – over pan-seared salmon.
This classic Mexican condiment really compliments the rich, flaky fish but adds a refreshing contrast to it.
Final Thoughts
You can find so many salmon sauces on our list. Whether you want a tangy sauce, a sweet glaze, or a fresh herbal twist, you’ll find a match here.
I hope you feel happy mixing and matching these blends. For me, it’s all about having fun while cooking.
You can roast, grill, or pan-sear your fish, then top it off with your favorite drizzle.
Always remember, that experimentation can lead to new and exciting flavors. Enjoy each meal and keep things simple!
