This Cheap and Easy Garlic Sriracha Salmon recipe delivers bold flavors on a budget. With a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a quick dinner solution.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Affordable ingredients: Uses simple, budget-friendly pantry items.
- Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and flavorful: High in protein and omega-3s without breaking the bank.
- Minimal cleanup: One pan for cooking makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen or fresh salmon fillets (budget-friendly frozen options work great)
- Garlic, minced
- Sriracha sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- Lemon or lime juice (bottled or fresh)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Prepare the salmon: If using frozen salmon, thaw completely by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or running it under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix minced garlic, Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Adjust the Sriracha amount based on your spice preference.
- Marinate the salmon: Season the fillets with salt and pepper, then brush or pour the marinade over them. Let sit for 10 minutes (optional for added flavor but not required).
- Cook the salmon:
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Pan-sear: Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with any leftover marinade or a squeeze of lemon. Pair with budget-friendly sides like rice or steamed vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep time: 5-10 minutes
- Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Variations
- Extra savings: Swap honey for brown sugar, and fresh lemon for bottled juice.
- Vegetarian option: Use the marinade on tofu or canned chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
- Rice bowl: Serve the salmon over cooked rice with chopped scallions for a complete meal.
- Spicy-sweet combo: Add a pinch of chili flakes and extra honey for a sweet heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power.
FAQs
What’s the most affordable type of salmon?
Frozen salmon fillets are typically more affordable than fresh. Look for sales or store-brand options.
Can I skip the marinade?
For an even faster version, brush Sriracha and honey directly onto the salmon before cooking.
What’s a cheap side dish for this recipe?
Steamed rice, frozen vegetables, or a simple salad are budget-friendly and delicious options.
How do I keep frozen salmon moist?
Pat the fillets dry after thawing, and don’t overcook to retain moisture.
Can I use other fish?
Yes, budget-friendly fish like tilapia or pollock also work well with this marinade.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
What if I don’t have Sriracha?
Use any hot sauce or a mix of ketchup and chili flakes as a substitute.
Can I meal prep with this recipe?
Absolutely! Cook the salmon and portion it into containers with rice and vegetables for ready-to-go meals.
Is it cheaper to make my own marinade?
Yes! Homemade marinades using pantry staples like soy sauce, garlic, and Sriracha are cost-effective and flavorful.
How do I stretch this meal?
Serve smaller salmon portions with extra sides like rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables to feed more people.
Conclusion
This Cheap and Easy Garlic Sriracha Salmon recipe proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a flavorful and nutritious meal. With a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. Serve with simple sides for a complete dinner that’s as easy on your wallet as it is on your taste buds!
Print
Cheap and Easy Garlic Sriracha Salmon
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
This quick and budget-friendly pasta is packed with flavor and requires only a few basic ingredients. Perfect for a fast meal or a satisfying snack, it’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients
- 250 g (1/2 lb) spaghetti or any pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter (or margarine for an even cheaper option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).
- Combine the pasta and sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta into bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley for extra flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrients without adding much cost.
- You can substitute butter with olive oil if desired.