5 Quick Costco Salmon Recipes You'll Love
Introduction to Costco's Salmon Selection
Costco, the renowned bulk store, is often celebrated for offering a variety of quality foods at unbeatable prices. One standout item in their seafood aisle is the salmon selection, which encompasses not just different cuts but also salmon from various sources like Wild Alaskan and farm-raised options. The rich omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and delicious flavor make salmon a fantastic choice for a quick, healthy meal. Let's delve into some delectable Costco salmon recipes that are both time-efficient and delicious.
Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter
Grilling salmon is one of the easiest ways to bring out its natural flavors. Here’s a straightforward recipe that won’t disappoint:
Ingredients:
- Costco’s Atlantic Salmon Fillets
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon for serving
Instructions:
- Mix the softened butter with the herbs, salt, and pepper to make the herb butter.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then place it on the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- During the last minute of grilling, spread a dollop of the herb butter on top of each salmon fillet.
- Serve with a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.
🍽️ Note: Use this recipe for a quick, flavorful meal that can be served with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, balanced dinner.
Poached Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Poaching salmon results in a moist, tender texture. Here’s a recipe that’s both simple and elegant:
Ingredients:
- Costco’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1⁄2 cup white wine
- 1 cup water
- Salt
- For the sauce:
- 1⁄2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, combine wine, water, lemon slices, and dill. Add salmon fillets, skin side down.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and poach for about 7-10 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through.
- While the salmon is poaching, mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Remove salmon from the poaching liquid, discard the skin, and serve with the lemon dill sauce on top.
Perfect for a light dinner or a sophisticated lunch, this poached salmon recipe adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Garlic Butter Asparagus
Combining pan-seared salmon with asparagus in garlic butter creates a deliciously simple one-pan meal:
Ingredients:
- Costco’s Atlantic Salmon Fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season salmon with salt and pepper.
- Heat half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets skin side up for 4 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove salmon to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add asparagus.
- Cook the asparagus, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, season to taste, and serve with the salmon.
🔥 Note: This recipe is excellent for a quick weeknight dinner, offering both protein and greens in one delicious dish.
Salmon and Avocado Salad
A fresh salad incorporating Costco’s high-quality salmon provides a light yet satisfying meal:
Ingredients:
- Costco’s Atlantic Salmon Fillets
- 1 avocado, diced
- Mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
- 1⁄4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for dressing
Instructions:
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then bake at 400°F (205°C) for about 12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Flake the cooled salmon and add it to the salad. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
This salmon and avocado salad is not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrition.
Baked Salmon with Honey Garlic Glaze
For a sweet and savory dish, try this baked salmon with a honey garlic glaze:
Ingredients:
- Costco’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets
- 4 tbsp honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Place salmon in a baking dish, pour the glaze over it, and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
The honey garlic glaze adds a delightful sweetness to the rich salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
In wrapping up, these Costco salmon recipes are not only easy to prepare but also bring out the natural flavors of one of the best protein sources you can cook with. Whether you're in the mood for grilling, poaching, pan-searing, or baking, Costco's wide variety of salmon cuts ensures you'll find exactly what you need to create a memorable meal. Each dish can be complemented with different sides to make a complete, nutritious dinner that satisfies both taste and health considerations. Remember, these recipes are designed to be quick, highlighting that even the most time-starved cooks can still enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort.
Is it safe to cook salmon from Costco?
+Yes, Costco ensures that all their salmon products are fresh and meet high food safety standards. Always check the expiration date and store it properly to maintain quality.
Can I freeze Costco salmon?
+Absolutely, you can freeze salmon from Costco. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
How do I know if my Costco salmon is fresh?
+Look for bright pink or red coloring, firm texture, and a fresh, not fishy, smell. Also, ensure the eyes on the salmon (if whole) are clear, not cloudy, and the gills are bright red or pink.
What are the health benefits of eating salmon?
+Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are great for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. It’s also a source of high-quality protein, vitamins D and B12, and potassium.
Can these recipes be adapted for salmon from other stores?
+Certainly! These recipes are versatile and can be used with salmon from any reputable fish market or grocery store. Adjust cooking times if needed based on the size and thickness of the fillets.