Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, cooks in under 15 minutes, and is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The grill gives it a slightly smoky flavor and beautiful char marks. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and lemon or dress it up with marinades or sauces. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can master at home with ease.

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets (with or without skin)

  • Olive oil

  • Lemon juice

  • Garlic, minced

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley, optional)

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).

  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pat the salmon dry and brush both sides with the oil mixture.

  4. Lightly oil the grill grates or use a grill basket to prevent sticking.

  5. Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down if it has skin.

  6. Grill for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

  7. Carefully remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes.

  8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

  • Honey Garlic Glaze: Add honey and soy sauce to the marinade for a sweet-savory twist.

  • Spicy Cajun: Rub salmon with Cajun seasoning for bold, smoky flavor.

  • Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger in the marinade.

  • Herb-Crusted: Coat the top of the salmon with chopped fresh herbs and a little panko before grilling.

  • Cedar Plank: Grill salmon on a soaked cedar plank for extra smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10–15 minutes or in a skillet over low heat.
Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture.
Leftover salmon is also great served cold in salads or wraps.

FAQs

Can I grill salmon with the skin on?

Yes, grilling with the skin helps keep the fish intact and adds flavor. Grill skin-side down first.

What’s the best type of salmon for grilling?

Thicker fillets like king (Chinook) or sockeye salmon are ideal for grilling.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

Should I marinate the salmon?

A short 15–30 minute marinade adds flavor, but it’s not required for delicious results.

Do I need to flip the salmon?

Yes, but only once to avoid breaking it. Use a wide spatula and flip gently.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely in the fridge and pat dry before grilling.

How do I keep salmon from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled, and don’t flip too early.

Can I grill salmon in foil?

Yes, grilling in foil helps retain moisture and makes cleanup easy. Just reduce direct grill marks.

What sides go well with grilled salmon?

Grilled veggies, rice pilaf, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.

Can I freeze grilled salmon?

Yes, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Grilled Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s a go-to recipe that’s both simple and impressive. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using an indoor grill pan, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results right at home.

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Grilled Salmon

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Grilled Salmon is a healthy, quick, and flavorful dish featuring perfectly cooked salmon fillets with a smoky char, tender flake, and a simple seasoning that enhances the fish’s natural richness. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F / 190–200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides with the oil mixture.
  4. Oil the grill grates or use a grill basket to prevent sticking.
  5. Place salmon on the grill, skin-side down if applicable. Grill for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Remove from grill and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, thick salmon fillets like king or sockeye.Don’t flip the salmon too early—it will release from the grill when it’s ready.Grilling in foil is a great alternative for extra-moist fish and easier cleanup.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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