Grilled Salmon Recipe – The Ultimate Guide

Grilled salmon recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a delicious meal packed with nutrients. Known for its rich omega-3 content and high-quality protein, salmon is perfect for grilling as it holds its shape and absorbs marinades beautifully. Whether hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, grilled salmon delivers unmatched flavor.

Salmon is a must-have for health enthusiasts due to its heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. If sustainability matters to you, choosing responsibly sourced salmon is critical. Refer to this guide to sustainable seafood choices for helpful tips.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Recipe

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• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

This lemon herb grilled salmon recipe is a classic, combining fresh ingredients to enhance the natural flavors of the fish. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fillets are evenly coated.
3. If the salmon has a strong smell, soaking it in milk for about 20 minutes before marinating can neutralize the odor and leave the fish with a mild, clean taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This step also helps the salmon absorb the marinade flavors.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

• Heat your grill to medium-high (375–400°F).
• Lightly oil the grates to prevent the salmon from sticking. If you prefer easier cleanup or have delicate fillets, grilling the salmon on foil is a great option. However, grilling directly on the grates gives you those desirable sear marks.

Step 3: Grill the Salmon

1. Remove the salmon from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
2. Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. The skin not only adds flavor but also helps protect the flesh as it cooks.
3. Cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. For the best texture and moisture, avoid flipping too often. One flip is all it takes.
4. The salmon is done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Cooking it for this duration ensures it stays juicy without drying out.

Step 4: Serve

• Transfer the grilled salmon to a plate.
• Garnish with extra fresh dill and a lemon wedge.
  • Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a simple green salad.

Notes

This recipe is perfect for quick dinners or elegant gatherings. The lemon herb marinade enhances the salmon’s natural flavors, and grilling gives it a smoky, charred essence. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your palate.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Grilled salmon, lemon herb salmon, summer grilling, healthy dinner recipes, easy salmon recipe

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Fresh ingredients like lemon and dill highlight the natural richness of salmon while grilling brings out a slightly smoky essence that’s hard to replicate. Adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile for those who prefer a bit of heat.

The beauty of grilled salmon recipe is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as grilled asparagus, creamy mashed potatoes, or couscous. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle it with a homemade tzatziki or dill sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Grilling Salmon Like a Pro

Grilling salmon doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple practices make all the difference:

• While rinsing salmon under cold water isn’t always necessary, it can help remove any surface debris, especially if the fish has been frozen.
• Leaving the skin on protects the salmon during grilling and prevents sticking. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
• Marinating the salmon for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate, but even a dry rub with spices like paprika, dill, or garlic powder works well.
• Preheating your grill is essential to create a non-stick surface and ensure even cooking.
• For those debating between grilling and pan-frying, both are great methods. Grilling imparts a smoky flavor, while pan-frying creates a crispier crust. Choose based on your preference!

Pairing Ideas for Grilled Salmon

To elevate your grilled salmon meal:

• Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, grilled zucchini, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Grains: Wild rice, quinoa, or creamy polenta.
• Sauces: A dollop of honey mustard glaze, tzatziki, or a tangy dill sauce.

Mastering Grilled Salmon

Cooking salmon to perfection is all about timing and preparation. Letting it cook skin-side down for 6–8 minutes per side ensures it stays moist and flavorful. For even cooking, flip it only once during the process. If you’re feeling creative, try seasoning the salmon with your favorite spice blends, like garlic powder, lemon zest, or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Grilled salmon is a dish that combines ease, nutrition, and flavor. With the tips in this guide, you’ll master the art of preparing this versatile fish. Whether you choose to grill directly or on foil, soak it in milk for a cleaner flavor, or explore bold spice combinations, the results will always be delicious.