Juicy, smoky, and packed with omega-3s, Grilled Salmon is a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ, grilled salmon is easy to make and full of fresh, savory flavors. With a touch of lemon, garlic, and herbs, this recipe brings out the best in salmon. Ready to grill up some salmon perfection? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for Perfect Grilled Salmon
For salmon that’s flavorful, juicy, and perfectly grilled, here’s the essential list of ingredients.
For the Salmon Marinade: Fresh, Savory, and Zesty
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on) – Look for fresh, high-quality salmon.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps keep the salmon moist on the grill.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and a touch of acidity.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped – For a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon wedges – For squeezing over the salmon.
- Extra chopped herbs (dill, parsley, or chives) – For a fresh finish.
Equipment Needed: Tools for Perfectly Grilled Salmon
Grilled salmon is easy to make with just a few basic tools.
- Grill or grill pan – For cooking the salmon to smoky perfection.
- Mixing bowl – For preparing the marinade.
- Tongs or fish spatula – For handling the salmon on the grill.
- Basting brush – For brushing the marinade on the salmon.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Grilled Salmon
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make grilled salmon that’s juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavor.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes while you preheat the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Salmon, Skin-Side Down: Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and grill for 5-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon.
- Flip and Finish Grilling: Carefully flip the salmon using tongs or a fish spatula. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Quick, Healthy, and Perfect for Sharing
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for this delicious grilled salmon:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: About 30-40 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~300 | Protein: 30g | Carbs: 2g | Fat: 18g
Tips and Variations: Make This Grilled Salmon Your Own
Grilled salmon is incredibly versatile! Here are some tips and variations to customize it just the way you like.
- Use Other Fresh Herbs: Try rosemary, thyme, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Honey Mustard Marinade: Mix 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard into the marinade for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Use Foil Packs: If you’re worried about sticking, grill the salmon in foil packs to keep it moist and easy to handle.
Presentation Tips: Serve Grilled Salmon Like a Pro
For a stunning presentation, serve the grilled salmon on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herb sprigs. Add a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, beautiful meal. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for a touch of elegance.
Grilled Salmon FAQs: Your Questions Answered
New to grilling salmon? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results every time.
- How do I know when salmon is done? The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes! Thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.
- How do I prevent salmon from sticking? Make sure your grill or pan is preheated and lightly oiled. Placing the salmon skin-side down first also helps prevent sticking.
Enjoy the Fresh, Smoky Flavor of Grilled Salmon
This Grilled Salmon recipe is everything you want in a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With juicy salmon fillets, a zesty marinade, and a smoky char from the grill, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy every flavorful bite of homemade grilled salmon. Happy grilling!
