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The Best Grilled Salmon Recipe


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3.9 from 4 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 15-17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This is a simple and delicious grilled salmon recipe perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Featuring skin-on fillets seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, then grilled over high heat to achieve a perfectly firm texture and smoky flavor. Served with fresh lemon wedges and optional sauces like tartar or cucumber dill for added zest.


Ingredients

Salmon Fillets

  • 4 (6-8 ounce) skin-on salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick)

Seasoning & Oil

  • 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

To Serve

  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • Optional: tartar sauce or cucumber dill sauce


Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill: Prepare the grill for direct cooking over high heat, targeting 450°F-550°F. Brush the cooking grates clean and close the lid to allow the grill to heat properly.
  2. Season the salmon: Generously coat the flesh side of each salmon fillet with grapeseed oil. Sprinkle the fillets evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin side down on the grill over direct high heat. Close the lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes until the fish changes color, firms up, and easily lifts from the grates without sticking. Flip the fillets, close the lid and cook for another 2-4 minutes for medium rare (internal temperature 130°F), or longer depending on your preferred doneness.
  4. Rest and serve: Transfer salmon to a platter and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Carefully slide the skin off each fillet if desired. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of tartar sauce or cucumber dill sauce for a refreshing finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and to achieve those perfect grill marks.
  • Grapeseed oil is ideal due to its high smoke point, but you can substitute with other neutral oils if needed.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check salmon doneness for precise cooking.
  • Resting the fish briefly after grilling helps retain juices and improves flavor.
  • Skin can be removed easily after cooking; some prefer to eat it for extra crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American