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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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