Discover the delights of Grilled Salmon, a quick and easy seafood favorite perfect for any meal. This dish features succulent salmon fillets, marinated in your choice of a mild, spicy, or herb-infused seasoning. Whether using a grilling pan, charcoal, or gas grill, you can achieve that irresistible smoky flavor.
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Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with brown rice, roasted or grilled vegetables. Stay tuned for simple tips and tricks to master this flavorful, one-pan wonder at home.
Ingredients and Substitutions Overview
Preparing Grilled Salmon is a breeze with these basic ingredients, which you can easily find at your nearby grocery store. Here's what you'll need:
- Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish, salmon provides a rich, buttery flavor. Fillets with skin add crispiness and retain moisture, but skinless or salmon steaks are also suitable for a lighter texture.
- Olive Oil: Used for its high smoke point, it ensures perfect grilling without burning. Its mild flavor supports the natural taste of the salmon without dominating.
- Garlic: Minced garlic is key for its aromatic qualities, infusing the salmon with a deep, savory flavor that complements its natural taste.
- Paprika and Pepper Powder: Paprika offers a mild spice and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal, while pepper powder adds a subtle heat, balancing the flavors.
- Lime Zest and Juice: Lime brings a bright acidity, cutting through the richness of the salmon and adding a refreshing note. Lemon can be used as a substitute for a different citrus twist.
- Parsley: Whether fresh or dried, parsley adds a burst of herbal freshness, rounding out the dish with its light, clean flavor.
How to Make Grilled Salmon at Home?
Master the art of Grilled Salmon with our concise guide, featuring photos and videos. Learn to create a flavorful marinade, marinate the fillets expertly, and grill to perfection. Let's begin!
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Best Grilled Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Salmon Fillet
- 1 tbsp Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Parsley, dried
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Olive Oil
- ½ tsp Pepper Powder
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Lime Zest
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
Instructions
To Pepare the Grilled Salmon Marinade
- In a glass bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, pepper powder, chopped parsley, lime zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined, ensuring a uniform and flavorful marinade.
To Marinate the Salmon Fillets
- Lay the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared marinade over each fillet. Using a brush or the back of a spoon, evenly coat both sides of the fillets with the marinade, ensuring every part is well-covered.
- Let the salmon sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the fish to fully absorb the rich flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
To Grill the Salmon
- Preheat your grilling pan over medium heat. Add oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly. Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets in the pan, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook the salmon for approximately 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Watch for the fillets to change color to a light pink and check that they flake easily with a fork, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Once grilled to perfection, remove the salmon from the pan. The fillets should have a golden crust on the outside while remaining moist and tender inside.
To Serve
- Serve this juicy and smoky Grilled Salmon with your preferred roasted or grilled veggies, a fresh salad, and rice for a complete meal. For more pairing ideas, see the serving suggestions section.
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
Preparation and Cooking Preferences:
- Salmon Choices: Both skin-on and skinless fillets work well in this recipe. Using skin-on fillets is great for savoring the rich, natural fats that enhance the dish's taste and texture. Salmon steak is also a fantastic option.
- Marinade Flexibility and Variations: Begin with a basic blend of olive oil, paprika, herbs, and garlic, and then experiment to personalize your dish. Explore different flavors by trying, salmon marinade, teriyaki marinade, BBQ sauce, soy sauce glaze, or various herbs to enhance the taste of your Grilled Salmon.
- Temperature Control: For those using a grilling pan, medium heat is ideal. If you're using a gas or charcoal grill, aim for a temperature between 380 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal cooking.
- Grilling Time: Aim for about 5 minutes per side for a perfectly grilled salmon. If you prefer a more charred, smoky flavor, extend the grilling time to 5-7 minutes or until the fish easily flakes with a fork.
- Grilling Method Overview: Achieve a natural smoky flavor with a charcoal grill, or opt for a gas grill, cedar plank, or grilling pan for equally delicious results. For a unique texture, try grilling with foil. For detailed temperature and time guidelines for each method, see the section below.
Grilling Techniques and Final Touches:
- Skin-Side Down First: Begin by grilling skin-on fillets skin-side down. This helps crisp the skin and makes it easier to flip the salmon without it falling apart.
- Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Space each salmon piece properly on the grill. This ensures even cooking and facilitates easier flipping, preventing the fillets from sticking or breaking.
- Use a Fish Spatula: Employ a thin, flexible fish spatula for flipping the salmon. Its design allows it to slide under the fillet easily, minimizing the risk of breaking the fish.
- Avoid Frequent Flipping: Allow the salmon to cook undisturbed for the recommended time before flipping. This approach aids in forming a good crust and keeps the fillet intact.
- Check for Doneness: Assess if the salmon is cooked by checking its internal temperature (145 degrees Fahrenheit) or by gently pressing the top of the fillet; it should flake easily if done.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the salmon with your choice of marinade or sauce to enhance the flavor.
- Let it Rest: After grilling, let the salmon rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer: We’re not nutrition experts. Nutritional info is estimated and should be used as a guide. For precise details, consult a professional.
Explore our collection of salmon fillet recipes, each paired with complementary sides for a complete meal. Ranging from classic savory fillets to innovative culinary creations, all designed to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Grilled Salmon dish with these top serving suggestions, perfectly curated to complement the smoky and savory flavors of your main course.
- With Grains: Serve alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. These grains complement the richness of the salmon while adding a wholesome element to the meal.
- Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad, a Greek salad with feta and olives, or a refreshing cucumber salad. The freshness of the salad balances the smoky flavor of the grilled salmon.
- Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: Accompany with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or a medley of grilled bell peppers and onions. The charred flavors from the vegetables pair perfectly with the salmon.
- Potato Dishes: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or a warm potato salad. Potatoes are a classic pairing that never fails to please.
- Pasta: Toss the salmon with a light pasta, such as angel hair or penne, mixed with a lemony sauce or pesto for an Italian twist.
- Asian Flavors: Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light Asian slaw for a touch of international flair.
Storage Suggestions
For the best taste, it's recommended to enjoy this dish fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Salmon Grilling Temperature and Time for Various Methods
Master the art of grilling salmon to perfection with these tailored temperature and timing tips for charcoal, gas grills, and cedar planks. Here's how:
- Charcoal Grill: Preheat the charcoal grill to a temperature of 470 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, with the lid closed, for about 10 minutes. Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until it easily flakes off. This high heat brings out the salmon's juicy texture and rich flavor.
- Gas Grill: Set your gas grill to medium heat, around 380 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the marinated salmon fillets on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Then, open the lid, flip the salmon, and grill for another 5 to 7 minutes or until the fish easily flakes with a fork. This method ensures even cooking and a deliciously moist result.
- Cedar Plank: Soak the cedar plank in water for 2 hours. Preheat your charcoal or gas grill as mentioned above. Place the cedar plank on the grill, leaving enough space around it, and then set the seasoned salmon on top. Close the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon turns uniformly pink. This technique infuses the salmon with a unique, smoky flavor from the cedar.
Each of these methods offers a distinct grilling experience and flavor profile, ensuring your Grilled Salmon is perfectly cooked and bursting with taste.
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