Enjoy the succulent taste of Grilled Salmon, a versatile dish perfect for any grill type. Marinate fresh fillets, with or without skin, in a savory seasoning blend, then grill them to smoky perfection. Quick, delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes!
In a glass bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, pepper powder, chopped parsley, lime zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined, ensuring a uniform and flavorful marinade.
To Marinate the Salmon Fillets
Lay the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared marinade over each fillet. Using a brush or the back of a spoon, evenly coat both sides of the fillets with the marinade, ensuring every part is well-covered.
Let the salmon sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the fish to fully absorb the rich flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
To Grill the Salmon
Preheat your grilling pan over medium heat. Add oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly. Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets in the pan, avoiding overcrowding.
Cook the salmon for approximately 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Watch for the fillets to change color to a light pink and check that they flake easily with a fork, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
Once grilled to perfection, remove the salmon from the pan. The fillets should have a golden crust on the outside while remaining moist and tender inside.
To Serve
Serve this juicy and smoky Grilled Salmon with your preferred roasted or grilled veggies, a fresh salad, and rice for a complete meal. For more pairing ideas, see the serving suggestions section.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to perfect your Grilled Salmon:
Preparation and Cooking Preferences:
Salmon Choices: Both skin-on and skinless fillets work well in this recipe. Using skin-on fillets is great for savoring the rich, natural fats that enhance the dish's taste and texture. Salmon steak is also a fantastic option.
Marinade Flexibility and Variations: Begin with a basic blend of olive oil, paprika, herbs, and garlic, and then experiment to personalize your dish. Explore different flavors by trying, salmon marinade, teriyaki marinade, BBQ sauce, soy sauce glaze, or various herbs to enhance the taste of your Grilled Salmon.
Temperature Control: For those using a grilling pan, medium heat is ideal. If you're using a gas or charcoal grill, aim for a temperature between 380 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal cooking.
Grilling Time: Aim for about 5 minutes per side for a perfectly grilled salmon. If you prefer a more charred, smoky flavor, extend the grilling time to 5-7 minutes or until the fish easily flakes with a fork.
Grilling Method Overview: Achieve a natural smoky flavor with a charcoal grill, or opt for a gas grill, cedar plank, or grilling pan for equally delicious results. For a unique texture, try grilling with foil. For detailed temperature and time guidelines for each method, see the section below.
Grilling Techniques and Final Touches:
Skin-Side Down First: Begin by grilling skin-on fillets skin-side down. This helps crisp the skin and makes it easier to flip the salmon without it falling apart.
Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Space each salmon piece properly on the grill. This ensures even cooking and facilitates easier flipping, preventing the fillets from sticking or breaking.
Use a Fish Spatula: Employ a thin, flexible fish spatula for flipping the salmon. Its design allows it to slide under the fillet easily, minimizing the risk of breaking the fish.
Avoid Frequent Flipping: Allow the salmon to cook undisturbed for the recommended time before flipping. This approach aids in forming a good crust and keeps the fillet intact.
Check for Doneness: Assess if the salmon is cooked by checking its internal temperature (145 degrees Fahrenheit) or by gently pressing the top of the fillet; it should flake easily if done.
Baste for Extra Flavor: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the salmon with your choice of marinade or sauce to enhance the flavor.
Let it Rest: After grilling, let the salmon rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.