Grilled salmon is a classic dish that never fails to impress with its delicious flavor and moist, tender texture. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a casual dinner with friends, or simply craving a nutritious meal, grilled salmon is the perfect choice. In this post, I’ll share with you a simple yet flavorful recipe for grilled salmon that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Grilled Salmon Recipe:
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 ounces each
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chopped fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
Instructions:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over the top, making sure to coat the salmon evenly. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Remove the salmon from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and discard the remaining marinade.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill. Close the lid and cook for 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, without flipping.
Carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula, and continue to cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
Remove the grilled salmon from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Serve the grilled salmon hot, alongside your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are firm and glossy, with no signs of discoloration or strong odor.
Keep an eye on the salmon while grilling to prevent overcooking. The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and easily flakes with a fork.
For added flavor, you can sprinkle the salmon with additional lemon zest and fresh herbs before serving.
If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the salmon in a grill pan on the stove or under the broiler in the oven.
Variations:
Add a kick of heat by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the marinade.
Experiment with different marinade ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and honey for an Asian-inspired twist.
Serve the grilled salmon with a side of homemade mango salsa or avocado salsa for a fresh and vibrant accompaniment.
Grilled salmon is not only delicious and versatile but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, grilled salmon is sure to impress with its bold flavor and elegant presentation. So fire up the grill and treat yourself to this mouthwatering dish today!