I’ll be honest with you—salmon is one of my favorite fish to cook. It’s tender, rich, and already has so much flavor.
But here’s the secret: the right sauce can turn plain salmon into something unforgettable. I’ve tested a bunch of sauces, and today I’m sharing the best ones that actually work and taste amazing.
These are simple, easy to make, and I promise they’ll take your salmon to the next level.
Lemon Butter Sauce – The Classic You Can’t Go Wrong With
If you’ve never tried salmon with lemon butter, you’re missing out. The butter makes it creamy, and the lemon cuts through with freshness. It’s one of those sauces that just clicks with salmon’s natural flavor.
- How to make it: Melt butter, add garlic, squeeze fresh lemon juice, and stir in a little parsley. That’s it!
- Why it works: Salmon can be a little heavy, but lemon butter balances it perfectly.
Honey Garlic Glaze – Sweet Meets Savory
This one is a family favorite. The mix of sweet honey with savory garlic makes the salmon sticky, shiny, and packed with flavor.
- How to make it: Cook garlic in butter, stir in soy sauce and honey, then let it bubble until thick. Brush it over your salmon.
- Why it works: The honey caramelizes and sticks to the fish, while garlic keeps it from being too sweet.
Creamy Dill Sauce – Fresh and Herby
When I want something light and refreshing, this is my go-to. Dill and salmon are like best friends—they just belong together.
- How to make it: Mix Greek yogurt (or sour cream) with lemon juice, fresh dill, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Why it works: The cool, creamy sauce pairs beautifully with warm salmon and keeps every bite exciting.
Teriyaki Glaze – Bold and Flavor-Packed
This one is for days when I crave something rich and savory. Teriyaki sauce makes salmon taste like restaurant-style food with very little effort.
- How to make it: Simmer soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic until it thickens into a glaze. Brush on top while salmon cooks.
- Why it works: The sweet-salty balance gives salmon an umami punch that keeps you coming back for more.
Garlic Herb Sauce – Simple but Delicious
Sometimes the easiest sauces are the best. Garlic herb sauce is quick, fresh, and makes salmon taste homey and comforting.
- How to make it: Sauté garlic in olive oil, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil, then finish with a squeeze of lemon.
- Why it works: Herbs brighten up salmon and give it that garden-fresh taste.
Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce – For a Little Kick
When I want something bold and spicy, Cajun cream sauce does the job. It’s creamy, smoky, and has just the right amount of heat.
- How to make it: Cook garlic with Cajun seasoning, stir in cream, and let it thicken. Pour it over baked or grilled salmon.
- Why it works: Salmon is rich, and a little spice cuts through and makes it exciting.
FAQs About Sauces for Salmon
1. What is the healthiest sauce for salmon?
Creamy dill sauce made with Greek yogurt is one of the healthiest. It’s light, fresh, and full of protein.
2. Can I use store-bought sauces?
Yes! Teriyaki and honey garlic sauces are easy to find at the store. But homemade always tastes fresher.
3. What sauce is best for grilled salmon?
Lemon butter or garlic herb sauce works best because they keep the salmon juicy without overpowering the smoky grill flavor.
4. What sauce is best for baked salmon?
Honey garlic glaze or creamy dill sauce—both bring out baked salmon’s flavor beautifully.
5. Can I mix different sauces?
Absolutely. For example, a little lemon butter with dill sauce is amazing. Play around and find your favorite combo.