THE BEST Grilled Salmon

THE BEST Grilled Salmon is a dish that offers a perfect blend of flavor and simplicity, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe will not disappoint. With its succulent texture and delightful seasoning, this grilled salmon stands out as a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of grape seed oil, kosher salt, and black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with various sides or sauces to fit any meal theme—be it casual or elegant.
• Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but nutritious.
• Grill Perfection: Achieve that beautiful grill mark while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside.

Tools and Preparation

To make THE BEST Grilled Salmon, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for successful grilling.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Fish spatula
• Grill brush
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Ensures even cooking at high temperatures, crucial for achieving that perfect sear on the salmon.
• Fish spatula: Designed to lift delicate fish fillets without breaking them apart.
• Grill brush: Keeps your grates clean for better flavor and prevents sticking.
• Meat thermometer: Helps monitor the internal temperature of the salmon for perfect doneness.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 6-8 ounce skin-on salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons grape seed oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 1 lemon (cut into wedges)

How to Make THE BEST Grilled Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

• Preheat your grill for direct cooking over high heat, aiming for temperatures between 450°F-550°F.
• Use a grill brush to clean the cooking grates and close the lid to allow it to heat up properly.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

• Generously coat the flesh side of each salmon fillet with grape seed oil.
• Evenly season the fillets with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Salmon

• Place the salmon on the grill skin side down over direct high heat.
• Close the lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes until the color lightens and firm to touch; ensure you can lift them off without sticking.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

• Carefully turn each fillet over using your fish spatula.
• Close the lid again and cook until reaching an internal temperature of 130°F or about 2-4 more minutes for medium rare or longer if desired.

Step 5: Serve

• Transfer the grilled salmon to a platter and let rest for 1-2 minutes.
• Slide off the skin from each fillet before serving with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy with tartar or cucumber dill sauce as desired.

How to Serve THE BEST Grilled Salmon

Serving THE BEST Grilled Salmon can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your guests and family alike.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Cucumber Salad: Slice cucumbers thinly, add red onions, and drizzle with lemon juice for a crisp contrast.

Use Flavorful Sauces

• Tartar Sauce: A creamy tartar sauce complements the grilled salmon beautifully.
• Cucumber Dill Sauce: This cool sauce adds a refreshing touch that pairs well with the rich taste of salmon.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Season asparagus with olive oil and grill until tender for a perfect addition.
• Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers roasted alongside the salmon enhance its flavors.

How to Perfect THE BEST Grilled Salmon

To achieve the perfect grilled salmon, follow these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Start with Quality Fish: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best taste.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough (450°F-550°F) to create a nice sear on the fish.
• Oil Generously: Coating the flesh side of the salmon with oil prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Flip Too Soon: Allow the skin to cook until it releases easily from the grill before flipping.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for THE BEST Grilled Salmon

Complement your THE BEST Grilled Salmon with these tasty side dishes. Each will enhance your meal and balance the flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and is packed with nutrients.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and bright color on your plate.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a subtle complement to the salmon’s richness.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled or boiled adds a seasonal touch that’s always popular.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch that contrasts nicely with grilled salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling salmon can be easy, but certain mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Skipping this step can cause the salmon to stick and cook unevenly. Always preheat your grill to high heat before placing the salmon on it.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking it for too long will dry it out. Aim for a medium-rare finish, which is around 130°F, and remove it from the grill when it’s nearly done.
• Using Too Much Oil: While oil is necessary, using too much can create flare-ups and make the salmon greasy. A light coat on the flesh side is sufficient for flavor and moisture.
• Ignoring Skin Side First: Placing the salmon skin side down first helps achieve a crispy texture and prevents sticking. Always grill skin side down for optimal results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Underspicing can lead to bland fish. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing THE BEST Grilled Salmon

• Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating THE BEST Grilled Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place salmon on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when THE BEST Grilled Salmon is done?

The best way to check doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 130°F for medium-rare.

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can substitute other firm fish like trout or halibut; however, cooking times may vary based on thickness and type of fish.

What should I serve with THE BEST Grilled Salmon?

Pair grilled salmon with refreshing sides like a green salad, quinoa, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I achieve crispy skin on my salmon?

To get crispy skin, ensure your grill grates are clean and hot before placing the fish skin-side down. Avoid moving it too soon to allow proper searing.

Final Thoughts

THE BEST Grilled Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. With its simple preparation and customization options—like adding herbs or spices—you can easily adapt this recipe to your taste preferences. Give it a try at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

The Best Grilled Salmon

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the ultimate grilled salmon recipe that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, this dish showcases succulent salmon fillets seasoned to perfection. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can elevate your meals while reaping the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Each bite offers a delightful mix of juicy texture and rich taste, making it an instant favorite among family and friends. Whether served with fresh salads or flavorful sauces, this grilled salmon is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons grape seed oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to high heat (450°F-550°F) and clean the grates with a grill brush.
2. Coat the flesh side of each salmon fillet with grape seed oil, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon on the grill skin-side down, cooking for 6-8 minutes until firm and lightly browned.
4. Flip carefully using a fish spatula and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes until an internal temperature of 130°F is reached for medium-rare.
5. Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
• Calories: 367
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 39g
• Cholesterol: 90mg