Salmon stands out as one of the most beloved fish varieties around the world. Its rich flavor and delicate texture make it a perfect candidate for grilling. Not only is grilled salmon mouthwatering, but it is also loaded with health benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. So, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight meal, grilled salmon is a dish that you can rely on to impress everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Grilled Salmon Recipe
This grilled salmon recipe is simple yet sophisticated, making it perfect for a range of occasions. The marinade blends together various flavors, from sweet brown sugar to aromatic herbs, creating a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare, as it requires minimal ingredients while still delivering maximum flavor. Additionally, grilling enhances the natural taste of salmon, producing a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Grilled Salmon
To make this scrumptious grilled salmon recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 salmon fillets (4-6 ounces each)
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon parsley leaves (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons thyme leaves (chopped)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
How to Make Grilled Salmon
Making grilled salmon is a straightforward process that you can master with just a little practice. Start by preparing the marinade that will infuse your salmon with flavor. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended.
Reserve 1 tablespoon of this marinade in the refrigerator for later use. This step is critical, as this reserved marinade will serve as your finishing touch, adding extra flavor just before serving.
Next, add the minced garlic to the marinade, and gently combine. Place the salmon fillets in the bowl and ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For best results, allow it to marinate for up to 8 hours; this gives the flavors more time to meld.
Once your salmon is done marinating, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat both outdoor or indoor grill pans over medium-high heat. Make sure to coat the grill grates with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Take the marinated salmon fillets out of the bowl and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the salmon fillets onto the grill carefully. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side. The salmon will start to turn opaque and develop beautiful grill marks. Once that side is perfectly cooked, flip the fillets and grill for an additional 5 to 6 minutes on the other side.
Just before you remove them from the grill, brush on the reserved marinade for an extra burst of flavor. Finally, when you notice that the salmon is opaque throughout, it’s ready to be served!
How to Serve Grilled Salmon
Serving grilled salmon is as delightful as making it. You can present the salmon fillets on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh parsley leaves or a slice of lemon for an added colorful touch. This dish pairs well with various sides, creating a balanced and flavorful meal that your family and friends will love.
Consider serving it alongside a vibrant salad filled with greens like arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, or complement it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. Alternatively, you could prepare a side of quinoa or rice to soak up any of the delicious juices from the salmon. The combinations are endless, allowing you to tailor the meal to your preferences.
Expert Tips for Grilled Salmon
Experience and experimentation are keys to perfecting your grilled salmon dish. Here are some expert tips to elevate your grilling game:
Quality Matters: Always seek out fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavors and textures. Try to buy wild-caught salmon when possible, as it tends to have a superior taste and nutritional content.
Don’t Rush the Marinade: The marinade is essential for flavor, so allow your salmon enough time to soak it in. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes, but 1 to 8 hours is truly ideal.
Use a Fish Spatula: Grilling fish can be tricky, so a fish spatula will help you handle the delicate fillets without breaking them apart.
Know Your Heat: Pay attention to your grilling temperature. Cooking salmon too high can result in burnt edges while leaving the center raw. Medium-high is typically the sweet spot for grilling salmon.
Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
How to Store Grilled Salmon
If you happen to have any grilled salmon leftover, storing it properly is essential to maintain its freshness. Start by letting the salmon cool down to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. You can store grilled salmon in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the salmon. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight freezer bag. You can freeze grilled salmon for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
Variations of Grilled Salmon
Grilled salmon is incredibly versatile, and you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some delightful variations to try:
Citrus Glow: Swap out the lemon zest for orange or lime zest for a citrusy twist. The combination of different citrus flavors can brighten the dish.
Herb Mix: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or basil instead of thyme and parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you’re craving some heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chili paste to the marinade for a spicy rendition of grilled salmon.
Honey Glaze: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a different sweet option that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Asian Inspired: Add sesame oil instead of olive oil and a dash of sesame seeds after grilling for an Asian twist on grilled salmon.
FAQ
What is the best temperature to grill salmon?
The best grilling temperature for salmon is medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 232°C).
How long should you marinate salmon for grilling?
You should marinate salmon for at least 1 hour but can extend it to 8 hours for optimal flavor penetration.
Can I grill salmon skin on?
Yes, you can grill salmon with the skin on! It helps keep the fish moist during cooking and is a great barrier between the fillet and the grill.
What sides go well with grilled salmon?
Grilled salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including fresh salads, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice dishes.
How can I tell if my grilled salmon is done?
Salmon is cooked perfectly when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque all the way through. Using a meat thermometer, you can check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Grilled Salmon
Equipment
- Skillet or grill
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 6 pieces salmon fillets (4-6 ounces each)
- 5 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp parsley leaves chopped
- 2 tsp thyme leaves chopped
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp minced garlic
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of the marinade for later use. Add minced garlic to the remaining marinade.
- Place salmon fillets in the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove the salmon from the marinade and let excess drip off. Place fillets on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side.
- Flip the fillets and grill for another 5-6 minutes until they are opaque and flaky.
- Brush the reserved marinade on the salmon just before removing it from the grill.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley or lemon slices if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!