Lemon Grilled Salmon

Lemon Grilled Salmon is a delightful and healthy dish that brings the best of both the ocean and the garden to your plate. This recipe is not just packed with flavors, but it also offers numerous health benefits, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Preparing Lemon Grilled Salmon is a beautiful way to celebrate the freshness of salmon and the zesty brightness of lemon. The marinade infuses the fish with flavor while the grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances its natural taste. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method, this dish is accessible for chefs of all skill levels. Plus, it’s an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.

How to Make Lemon Grilled Salmon

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 lemons (one for juice, one for slices)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley, optional)
• Roasted vegetables or salad for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the salmon fillets in the mixture for about 15-30 minutes.
4. Lightly oil the grill grates.
5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill.
6. Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with lemon slices, roasted vegetables or a simple salad, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Lemon Grilled Salmon

Serve your Lemon Grilled Salmon hot off the grill, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by lemon slices. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. The dish pairs well with white wine or even a light sparkling water for a non-alcoholic option, elevating your meal experience.

How to Store

If you have leftovers, allow the grilled salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the grill to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make

• Make sure to use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• If you enjoy a little spice, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade.
• For a richer flavor, allow the salmon to marinate longer—up to an hour can enhance the taste immensely.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices in the marinade. Try swapping lemon juice for lime juice or adding a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist. You can also use different types of fish such as trout or halibut, which can work equally well with this citrusy marinade.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure that it is thoroughly thawed before marinating and grilling.

2. Is grilling salmon healthy?
Absolutely! Grilling is a low-fat cooking method that allows excess fat to drip away, making salmon a delicious and health-conscious option.

3. How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Always use a food thermometer for precise results.

Lemon Grilled Salmon

A delightful and healthy dish featuring fresh salmon marinated in a zesty lemon garlic mixture, perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Healthy

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 pieces salmon fillets Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• 2 pieces lemons One for juice and one for slices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• to taste none Salt and pepper
• to taste none Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley, optional) These can be used as garnish.

For serving

• as desired none Roasted vegetables or salad A great pairing for the dish.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat the grill to medium heat.
• In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Marinate the salmon fillets in the mixture for about 15-30 minutes.
• Lightly oil the grill grates.

Cooking

• Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill.
• Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serving

• Serve with lemon slices, roasted vegetables or a simple salad, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

If you have leftovers, allow the grilled salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the grill to prevent it from drying out. For added spice, you can consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade. Variations can include using lime juice instead of lemon juice, or substituting different types of fish such as trout or halibut.

Keyword grilled fish, Healthy Dinner, Lemon Grilled Salmon, Omega-3, salmon recipes