Easy Grilled Salmon Recipe | Quick & Healthy Dinner

If you’re looking for a light, healthy, and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Easy Grilled Salmon Recipe! Grilled salmon is not only packed with rich, savory flavors, but it also cooks up in just a few minutes. The tender, flaky fish paired with a burst of citrus and herbs makes for a meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple recipe is a great way to enjoy salmon without the fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Grilled Salmon Recipe

This grilled salmon recipe is so easy to make, yet it tastes like it came from a fine-dining restaurant. Salmon is a wonderfully versatile fish that pairs well with a variety of flavors, and grilling it brings out its natural smoky essence while keeping it moist and tender. The best part is that this recipe only requires a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a simple but elegant meal.

Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, salmon is an excellent choice for a heart-healthy, nutritious meal. This recipe can be customized to suit your flavor preferences, whether you prefer a simple lemon-garlic seasoning or a zesty marinade. Plus, you can serve it with just about anything—steamed vegetables, rice, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this mouthwatering grilled salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional, for a fresh, herbal taste)

Optional Add-Ons/Substitutes:

• You can use lime or orange slices instead of lemon for a different citrusy twist.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• For an extra tangy kick, drizzle the salmon with a bit of balsamic glaze or honey after grilling.

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How To Make Easy Grilled Salmon

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the simple steps for making perfect grilled salmon:

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures that the fish cooks evenly. If the salmon has skin on, it helps protect the fish from drying out while grilling, so don’t worry about removing it unless you prefer it skinless.
2. Season the Salmon:
   Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil, then rub both sides with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it over the fish as well. This seasoning mix is simple but packs tons of flavor. Don’t forget to season the underside of the fillets too!
3. Preheat the Grill:
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If you’re using a grill pan on the stovetop, heat it over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with a little bit of oil.
4. Grill the Salmon:
   Once the grill is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Avoid moving the salmon around too much, as it can stick to the grill. After 4-6 minutes, use a spatula to gently flip the fillets over and grill the other side for another 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. The fish should easily flake with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
5. Add the Lemon:
   While the salmon is grilling, you can also grill the lemon wedges alongside the fillets for a few minutes, until they’re lightly charred. This brings out the sweetness of the lemon and makes a great garnish to squeeze over the salmon before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   Once the salmon is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Serve the grilled salmon with the charred lemon wedges on the side and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

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Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. It’s best to remove the fillets from the grill when they’re still a little moist inside. The fish will continue to cook slightly after you take it off the grill.
• Use a Fish Basket or Aluminum Foil: If you’re worried about the salmon falling apart or sticking to the grill, you can use a fish basket or place the salmon on a piece of aluminum foil with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking.
• Check for Doneness: The easiest way to check if your salmon is done is by using a fork to gently pull apart a piece of the fish. If it flakes easily, it’s ready to go. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F internally.

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How To Serve

Grilled salmon is delicious served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to make this meal even more satisfying:

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair your salmon with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or a mix of seasonal vegetables for a nutritious, colorful plate.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the fish and add a fresh element to the dish.
• Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve the salmon with garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette.

For a complete Southern-inspired meal, serve the grilled salmon alongside some buttery mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown for one serving of grilled salmon (without sides):

• Calories: 300-350 (depending on portion size and added oil)
• Protein: 35-40g (salmon is a great source of lean protein)
• Carbs: 1-2g (mainly from the lemon and seasoning)
• Fat: 18-22g (mostly healthy fats from the salmon and olive oil)

This makes for a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s perfect for those following a keto, paleo, or low-carb diet.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Grilled salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Allow the salmon to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 1-2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 275°F for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, but be careful not to dry it out.
• Freezing: If you have extra grilled salmon, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

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Conclusion

This Easy Grilled Salmon Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, simple, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this recipe will make salmon your new favorite go-to dish.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! If you’re looking for more easy and tasty recipes, feel free to check out some of my other favorites that are just as simple and satisfying. Happy grilling!