Spice up your salmon dishes with these flavorful herbs. From the delicate notes of dill to the bold aroma of rosemary, discover the best herbs for salmon to take your recipes to the next level.
Best herbs for salmon
Salmon is a delicious and versatile fish that can be cooked in many different ways, from grilling and baking to smoking and poaching. However you cook it, adding the right herbs to your salmon can help to bring out its natural flavors and complement its rich, buttery taste.
And whether you’re a fan of delicate flavors or bold and intense aromas, there’s an herb out there to suit your taste.
Some of the most popular and best herbs for salmon include dill, parsley, chives, and tarragon, but there are many more that will complement this tasty dish.
Herbs that go with salmon
Salmon is a versatile fish that can be paired with a variety of herbs to enhance its flavor. Here are some of the best herbs that go with salmon:
1. Dill
Dill is a delicate herb that pairs well with salmon, thanks to its subtle anise-like flavor. Its light and fresh taste complements the richness of salmon, making it a great choice for a variety of dishes.
Dill can be used in salmon cakes or gravlax, and is also a great garnish for a refreshing finish to a salmon dish.
Try topping grilled or roasted salmon with this homemade Lemon Dill Butter.
>> Related article: How to Use Dill in Cooking
2. Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that adds brightness and freshness to salmon dishes. Its mild flavor and earthy undertones pair well with the richness of salmon.
Parsley can be used in marinades or sauces, or add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley as a garnish to your finished dish for a pop of color and freshness.
A parsley and lemon butter sauce is another great way to add flavor to grilled or baked salmon.
3. Chives
Chives are a delicate herb that add a mild onion flavor to salmon dishes. They’re a great choice for those who prefer a milder herb flavor.
Chives can be used in sauces or dips, or sprinkled on top of a salmon fillet as a finishing touch.
A creamy chive and lemon sauce is a great way to add flavor to a salmon dish.
4. Tarragon
arragon is a herb with a sweet, anise-like flavor that pairs well with salmon. It can add depth and complexity to salmon dishes, especially those that are cream-based.
Tarragon can be used in sauces or marinades, or added to a creamy sauce for a decadent finish.
A tarragon and mustard sauce is a great way to add a zesty kick to a salmon dish. Or try making your own Tarragon Butter.
5. Basil
Basil is a versatile herb that adds a sweet and fresh flavor to salmon dishes. Its slightly minty flavor can complement the richness of salmon.
Basil can be used in sauces or marinades, or added to a pesto for a zesty and flavorful finish.
>> Related recipe: How to make pesto with fresh basil
6. Thyme
Thyme is a herb with a slightly earthy and citrusy flavor that can add depth and complexity to salmon dishes. Its subtle flavor can complement the natural flavor of salmon without overpowering it.
Thyme can be used in sauces or marinades for salmon, or added to a butter sauce for a rich and flavorful finish. Try using a rub made from fresh thyme and garlic to add flavor to grilled or baked salmon.
>> Related article: How to use Thyme in Cooking
7. Sage
Sage is an herb with a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that can add depth and complexity to salmon dishes.
It pairs particularly well with rich and buttery preparations, such as baked or grilled salmon.
>> Related article: How to Use Sage in Cooking
8. Cilantro
Cilantro is a herb with a fresh and citrusy flavor that can add a zesty kick to salmon dishes.
It pairs particularly well with spicy or bold flavors, such as in Mexican or Thai-inspired dishes.
9. Lemon balm
Lemon balm is an herb with a lemony flavor that can add brightness and freshness to salmon dishes. It pairs particularly well with lighter preparations, such as poached or grilled salmon.
10. Rosemary
Rosemary is a herb with an earthy and slightly piney flavor that can add a bold and intense flavor to salmon dishes. Its strong flavor can stand up well to the rich and buttery texture of salmon.
Rosemary can be used in marinades or rubs for salmon, or added to a butter sauce for a rich and intense finish.
A rosemary and lemon marinade is a great way to add a burst of flavor to grilled or baked salmon.
How to use herbs with salmon
Experiment with different herb combinations to find the perfect pairing for your salmon dish. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way, so use herbs sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish.
Here are a few tips on how to use herbs with salmon:
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Fresh herbs have a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs and can really bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Pair herbs with other flavors that complement salmon. For example, dill and lemon are classic pairings with salmon because they bring out the fish’s natural sweetness and add a bright, citrusy note.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite combinations. Some other herbs that go well with salmon include parsley, tarragon, chives, and thyme.
- Don’t overdo it with the herbs. While herbs can add a lot of flavor to salmon, it’s important not to overpower the fish. Use a light hand and taste as you go to ensure that the herbs are enhancing the dish, not overwhelming it.
Make an herb butter
One great way to use herbs with salmon is to create a simple herb butter.
To make herb butter, simply soften some butter and mix in chopped herbs like dill, parsley, and chives.
Spread the herb butter over the salmon before cooking or serve it on top of the cooked fish for an extra burst of flavor.
>> Related article: How to Make Herb Butter (from any fresh herbs)
Make a rub
Another option is to create a simple herb rub for the salmon. Mix together chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and a little bit of olive oil to create a paste.
Rub the paste onto the salmon before cooking for a flavorful crust.
Make a marinade
Finally, consider adding herbs to a marinade for the salmon. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like thyme and tarragon.
Marinate the salmon in the mixture for a few hours before cooking for a flavorful and juicy fish.