Name: Best Lemon Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170g each); 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp cracked black pepper; 1 large lemon, thinly sliced into rounds; 8 sprigs fresh thyme, slightly bruised; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes

Why Make This Recipe

During the winter months, many of us crave meals that are both hearty and comforting. Fish, particularly salmon, can be a lighter yet equally satisfying option. This Best Lemon Grilled Salmon recipe is not only simple to make, but it also infuses the fish with a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up those chilly days. The combination of buttery garlic, fresh lemon, and thyme creates a delightful dish that feels special enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight family meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy protein while still feeling cozy!

How to Make Best Lemon Grilled Salmon

Creating delicious grilled salmon at home might sound complicated, but this recipe breaks it down into straightforward steps. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a meal that looks and tastes impressive.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170g each)
2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 large lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
8 sprigs fresh thyme, slightly bruised
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
0.5 tsp red pepper flakes

Directions

Prep the Salmon
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures that you achieve a nice sear on the fish.
Season the Fillets
Next, rub the kosher salt and cracked black pepper onto all sides of the fillets. Seasoning the fish well is crucial as it enhances the flavor. Be generous, but make sure not to overdo it; salmon has a rich, natural flavor that shouldn’t be masked.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Use a fork or a small whisk to blend everything well. This garlic butter mixture will be spooned over the salmon while it cooks, infusing it with flavor.
Set Up the Grill or Pan
If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium heat. If you are opted for stovetop cooking, choose a grill pan and heat it on medium. You want a nice hot surface to sear the salmon effectively.
Prepare the Cooking Bed
On the grill, place the thinly sliced rounds from a large lemon directly onto the grilling surface. Evenly distribute the 8 sprigs of fresh thyme over the lemon slices. This will create a flavorful bed for the fish to cook on, preventing sticking and adding extra aroma.
Cook the Salmon
Lay the seasoned salmon fillets directly onto the lemon and thyme bed. Allow the fish to cook for about 6 minutes until the bottom edges turn opaque. At this point, the fish will start to get tender.
Add the Garlic Butter
Carefully spoon half of the garlic butter mixture over the top of each fillet. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fillets moist while cooking.
Finish Cooking
If you like a bit of char on the top, use a spatula to gently flip the fillets off the lemons for the last 2 minutes of cooking. This will allow for better browning. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; the salmon is done when it reaches 135°F (57°C).
Final Touches
Remove the salmon from heat and top each fillet with the remaining garlic butter mixture and a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which adds bright acidity.
Let it Rest
Allow the salmon to rest for about 3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the fish for a more tender and flavorful bite.

How to Serve Best Lemon Grilled Salmon

This lemon grilled salmon can be served in various ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are some simple ideas:

On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salmon over a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens for a light and healthy meal. You can add cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, or cucumber for extra color and flavor.
With Side Dishes: Pair the salmon with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa. The buttery and zesty flavors of the salmon complement many sides beautifully.
With Citrus Salsa: For added freshness, consider making a citrus salsa with diced mango and avocado. The sweetness balances the savory salmon perfectly.
In Tacos: Flake the cooked salmon and use it as a filling for tacos, topped with slaw or a simple cabbage mix and a drizzle of lime crema.

How to Store Best Lemon Grilled Salmon

If you have leftover salmon, you can store it effectively to enjoy later:

Refrigerate: Allow the salmon to cool down to room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freeze: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon. Wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag, where it can be kept for about 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently.

Tips for Making Best Lemon Grilled Salmon

Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh salmon will always yield better results. Look for fillets that are bright in color and smell fresh.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to tweak the garlic butter with different herbs like dill or parsley, or add different spices to the mix for a varied flavor profile.
Use a Fish Spatula: When flipping or transferring the fillets, a fish spatula makes it easier and helps keep the salmon intact.

Variations of Best Lemon Grilled Salmon

Herb-Infused: Mix in different herbs like dill, rosemary, or basil into the garlic butter for unique flavor combinations.
Spicy Version: For those who enjoy a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the lemon and thyme bed.
Honey Glazed: For a sweet and savory twist, drizzle honey over the salmon before cooking. The sugars will caramelize and create a lovely glaze.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Is it possible to cook this salmon in the oven?
Absolutely! You can place the prepared salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.

3. How do I know when salmon is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for perfect results. Alternatively, you can gently flake the fish with a fork; it should easily separate but still look moist.

With these straightforward steps and tips, you’re on your way to creating a delicious Best Lemon Grilled Salmon that will make your winter meals bright and memorable! Enjoy!