Salmon on the Grill Recipe: Your Go-To Guide for Flawless Fish BBQs

Watch the video below for the full recipe!

Grilling salmon can transform your weeknight dinners or social gatherings with a touch of gourmet yet an effortlessly rustic charm. Imagine the satisfying sizzle as salmon meets the grill, the aroma of perfectly cooked fish wafting through the air, promising a meal that’s not only healthy but loaded with flavors that only the grill can impart. With its versatile nature, salmon allows you to play with a myriad of seasonings and marinades, teasing your palate with every bite.

Picture yourself unveiling a beautifully grilled salmon to your guests or family, its skin crisply contrasted against the tender, pink flesh inside. Mastering the art of grilled salmon is about understanding the simple nuances—like getting the temperature just right, oiling the grates to prevent sticking, and knowing when the salmon flakes at the touch of your fork. Embrace the process and soon you’ll be grilling with the confidence of a seasoned chef, bringing a dish to the table that’s sure to impress.

Choosing Your Salmon

Before you fire up the grill, picking the right type of salmon is crucial. You’ll want to consider the variety, check for freshness, and decide on the portion sizes that best suit your meal.

Types of Salmon

There are five primary types of salmon that you might find at your local market:

1. King (Chinook): Known for its high-fat content and rich flavor.
2. Sockeye: Has a vibrant red color and a strong, distinct taste.
3. Coho (Silver): Milder and often more affordable.
4. Pink (Humpback): The most common type, best used in dishes with bold flavors.
5. Chum (Dog): A good, budget-friendly option, but less flavorful.

Selecting Freshness

To ensure you’re getting the freshest salmon:

• Smell: It should smell like the ocean, not fishy.
• Texture: The flesh should be firm and snap back when pressed.
• Appearance: Look for bright, clear eyes and shiny scales.
• Color: Flesh should be bright and not dull.

Portion Sizes

When determining portion sizes for your grill, you might want to consider:

• Individual Fillets: Typically range from 6-8 ounces.
• Steaks: Cut thicker and suitable for heartier appetites, ranging from 8-10 ounces.
• Whole Fish: Great for a gathering, plan on at least two pounds to serve four to six individuals.

Choose wisely, and let the amazing flavors of good-quality salmon become the star of your grilled feast!

Grilling the Perfect Salmon

Perfectly grilled salmon is a beautiful balance of smoky flavor, flaky texture, and a slightly crisp exterior. By paying close attention to the preparation of your grill, the seasoning of the fish, and your grilling technique, you can ensure a delicious outcome every time. Proper doneness and safety are paramount to both the taste and healthiness of your meal.

Preparing the Grill

Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. It’s essential to clean the grates with a grill brush—last meal’s remnants have no place in your salmon tale. After brushing, oil the grates to create a non-stick surface; this helps in achieving that impeccable sear without sacrificing the skin to the Grill Gods.

Seasoning Your Salmon

Let’s talk flavor—start with fresh salmon for the best results. Ensure it’s dry, then lovingly brush it with olive oil. This not only helps the seasonings stick but also improves the cooking process. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper, or perhaps try a simple brine or a dynamic marinade for a deeper flavor profile. Consider using herbs like dill or spices such as paprika, suiting your own taste.

Grilling Techniques

Once your grill is hot, place the salmon skin-side down directly on the oiled grates. This method lets the skin crisp up, protecting the delicate flesh from the direct heat. There’s no need to flip, just close the lid and let it cook for 6-8 minutes. For a cross-hatch pattern, impress your guests by gently rotating the salmon 90 degrees halfway through.

Doneness and Safety

A perfectly grilled salmon should be cooked to 145°F—the FDA’s recommended internal temperature to ensure safety. However, many chefs prefer to remove salmon from the grill just before this, as residual heat will carry on cooking. For moist, slightly translucent salmon, aim for a temp closer to 125°F to 130°F. Always use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork. Remember, salmon continues to cook a bit after you’ve taken it off the heat, so let it rest for a few minutes to achieve perfect doneness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before diving into the intricacies of grilling salmon, let’s address some common queries to enhance your grilling skills and ensure your salmon is both delectable and perfectly cooked.

What’s the secret to getting that perfect char on grilled salmon?

Achieving that perfect char on your grilled salmon involves preheating the grill to a medium-high temperature and placing the salmon skin-side down without moving it too soon. This allows the skin to get crispy and develop those sought-after grill marks.

Can you share a simple yet flavorful marinade for enhancing my grilled salmon?

Certainly! A classic marinade that works wonderfully is a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs such as dill and parsley. Just let your salmon bathe in this marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

How do I master the grilling of salmon in foil to lock in moisture?

When you grill salmon in foil, you’re steaming it in its own juices, which locks in moisture and flavor. Start by making a foil packet, add some marinade or seasoning, and grill it with the lid closed for 15-18 minutes.

Could you suggest the optimal grilling time for salmon to ensure it’s cooked just right?

The optimal grilling time for salmon is typically 6-7 minutes skin-side down over medium-high heat, and then flipping it for an additional 2-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done.

Should I aim for grilling salmon directly on the grates or is using foil a better technique?

Grilling salmon directly on the grates gives you a crisper skin and those classic grill marks, whereas using foil is a foolproof way to get moist, evenly cooked fish. It’s really up to your preference and the specific grilling technique you’re comfortable with.

What are the essential spices for creating a tantalizing seasoning for grilled salmon?

The essential spices for a great seasoning include salt and pepper as the base, with the addition of other herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cumin or coriander. These spices will help to create a tantalizing seasoning for that perfect grilled salmon.